Paolo Banchero, Ben Mathurin, and Jaden Ivey were all top-ten draft picks this season, so they’re all *supposed* to be cornerstones for their respective franchises. But as we know, the NBA Gods don’t care what’s “supposed” to happen, and even top draft picks often take time acclimating to the size, speed, and strength of the NBA, sometimes never being able to fully adapt to the talent of the league.
That’s not the case with these three rookies. Right off the bat, they’ve shown a level of maturity on the court well beyond their years.
In just three games, [Banchero](https://youtu.be/zM9hahxwk8w) has showcased everything that made him the rightful No. 1 pick in June’s NBA Draft. Self-creation ability, awe-inspiring fluidity at 6’10, and a strength/burst combination that seems to [surprise](https://enjoybasketball.beehiiv.com/p/top-rookies-off-sizzling-start) defenders on every drive.
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I think back to before the draft when many posters were saying “no player in this draft would go top 5 last year”. I wonder if they changed their minds yet. This was a better draft in terms of star potential.