Franz Wagner played a big role for the Orlando Magic when All-Star forward Paolo Banchero hurt his oblique. Now, Wagner has the same injury.
Wagner has a torn right oblique, which is a big setback for the Magic. He will be out for at least four weeks, and possibly longer. This is tough news for a team that has already been without Banchero and is still playing well, making it to the NBA Cup quarterfinals.
“The Magic said in a statement on Saturday that Wagner will be out indefinitely, and his return will depend on how well he responds to treatment. He will be re-evaluated in four weeks.”
Wagner got injured during Friday’s game against Philadelphia. He had started every game for Orlando this season, which has been a big reason why the team has a 16-9 record so far.
Wagner has been the Magic’s best player in the 20 games since Banchero’s injury in late October. He has averaged 26.1 points, 6 rebounds, and 6.3 assists during this time, helping the team to a 13-7 record in those games, including a strong 13-3 record in their last 16 games.
Wagner was on track to make his first All-Star team and was a leading candidate for the league’s most improved player award this season.
“All-Star,” Magic coach Jamahl Mosley shouted earlier this week as he walked toward Wagner, who was talking to reporters. “I’m telling the truth. All-Star.”
Now, that seems uncertain. If Wagner’s injury recovery is similar to Banchero’s, his chance to win awards like MIP could be at risk, as NBA rules require players to appear in at least 65 games to be eligible for such awards.
Banchero will miss his 21st game of the season when Orlando hosts Phoenix on Sunday. The Magic are hoping he might return by the end of the month.
