Franz Wagner is ready for an upgrade due to major injuries

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner is expected to receive a significant upgrade to his injury status, according to Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel. The team plans to change your tag from “torn right oblique” to “back to competition reconditioning,” signaling his progress toward a return to action.

Wagner suffered a torn fibula during the Magic’s 102-94 loss to the Philadelphia 76erswhere he recorded 30 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Before the injury, Wagner was having the best season of his career, averaging 24.4 points, 5.7 assists, 5.6 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 46.5% from the field in 25 games. Despite his absence for the last 16 games, Orlando has maintained a strong position, going 23-18 and the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference.

The return of Franz Wagner hints at the Magic’s push for a strong second half of the season

The timing of Wagner’s potential return coincides perfectly with the resurgence of All-Star forward Paolo Banchero, who recently returned to the team after missing 34 straight games with the same injury. Banchero quickly made an impact, averaging 27.0 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists on 55.2% shooting from the field and 60% from three in his past two games. U In the Magic’s 109-106 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, Banchero led the offense with 34 points and seven rebounds, showing his ability to lead the team offensively.

The Magic begin a pivotal two-game road trip this week, facing the Bucks (20-17) on Wednesday night before taking on the Boston Celtics (28-11) on Friday in a nationally televised contest. With Wagner’s imminent return and Buncher in form, Orlando looks poised to make a strong push in the second half of the season.

Together, Wagner and Banchero could serve as a catalyst for the Magic’s growing squad as they aim to solidify their position among the best teams in the Eastern Conference. Wagner’s scoring versatility and defensive ability, paired with Bancher’s dynamic offensive game, provide Orlando with a powerhouse duo capable of competing against the best in the league.

The Magic’s performance in these upcoming matchups will provide insight into their potential ceiling as they work to build momentum in the later stages of the season. Furthermore, Wagner’s upgrade marks a significant step toward a fully healthy roster and could be a turning point in the Magic’s quest for success.