The Cavaliers boast the ideal duo to effectively contain the Magic’s standout player, Paolo Banchero.

When considering the Cleveland Cavaliers’ strategy against the Orlando Magic in the NBA Playoffs’ first round, the focus lies squarely on Orlando forward Paolo Banchero.

To put it plainly, the Magic’s offensive performance hasn’t been stellar. They rank in the NBA’s lower tier, averaging 112.9 points per 100 possessions throughout the season. Orlando heavily relies on Banchero to drive their offense, evident in his leading usage rate of 29.2%.

Cleveland head coach J.B. Bickerstaff acknowledges Banchero’s poise and mastery of his game. Bickerstaff emphasizes the need to disrupt Banchero’s rhythm, particularly in his favored mid-range shots, and to contest every attempt. Banchero’s knack for drawing fouls and executing pump fakes further underscores the importance of disciplined defense against him.

Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen can certainly whip up a formidable defensive scheme to challenge Paolo Banchero’s offensive game.

Given Banchero’s prominent role and scoring ability, he’s likely to put up impressive numbers. However, the Cavaliers won’t simply allow him free rein. Instead, they plan to force him to work for every shot, potentially deploying a player specifically suited to defend Banchero throughout the series.

Given Banchero’s impressive scoring abilities and composure, Cleveland cannot entirely neutralize his offensive impact. However, with Evan Mobley in top form, they possess the means to greatly impede Banchero’s effectiveness, particularly with Allen providing support to Mobley.

Although Banchero managed a 5-7 shooting record against Mobley during the regular season, there exists a distinct and effective strategy the Cavs can employ when Banchero is in possession. This approach encourages him to engage in one-on-one offensive battles against Mobley, presenting a clear opportunity for Cleveland to contain him.

At various points this season, Banchero has expressed confidence in his ability to drive to the basket using his left hand. However, upon reviewing the footage, it becomes evident that even when positioned on the left side of the court, he consistently favors using his right hand.

Even when Banchero opts to attack from the right side using his dominant hand, his effectiveness is hindered by Orlando’s insufficient spacing. The Cavaliers can capitalize on this weakness by deploying Mobley, renowned for his prowess in isolation defense, to steer Banchero towards the paint. There, Allen consistently provides support, effectively obstructing Banchero’s path.

The combined defensive prowess of Mobley and Allen becomes even more formidable when Banchero is attacking from the corner. In this scenario, Allen assumes the role of a help defender, pressuring Banchero to halt his dribble and potentially forcing him into taking a low-percentage shot. This defensive tactic has been consistently employed by opposing teams throughout the season against Banchero and the Magic, resulting in a plethora of pull-up mid-range attempts, disrupted pass endeavors, contested shots, and turnovers stemming from congested play.

Though it’s just one method among several for Cleveland to stifle Banchero and Orlando’s offensive strategies, the presence of Mobley and Allen to pressure Banchero certainly enhances the Cavs’ chances in the series. Of course, there’s also the challenge posed by Franz Wagner to contend with. Nevertheless, neutralizing Banchero’s impact serves as a crucial initial step, regardless of Wagner’s contributions.