Franz Wagner receives key injury notice for Hornets clash

The Orlando Magic they could be without one of their key starters when they face the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday night. As the team continues its five-game road trip, latest list of injury reports forward Franz Wagner as questionable with left heel contusion.

Wagner last played in Orlando’s 135-116 loss to the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night, where he had 22 points, seven rebounds, two assists and a block in 33 minutes. He shot 6-for-14 from the field, 3-for-4 from three-point range, and 7-for-11 from the free throw line. Despite his efficient effort, the Magic fell to 1-4, marking their fourth straight loss since an opening night win over the Miami Heat.

Now in his fifth NBA season, Wagner has been a consistent force for Orlando, averaging 22.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, three assists and one steal per game while shooting 53.3% from the field and 42.1% from beyond the arc. His scoring versatility and strong chemistry with Paolo Bunchero and Desmond Bain anchored the Magic’s offensive rhythm during the early part of the season.

The Magic could turn to young depth with Franz Wagner questionable for the Hornets matchup

If Wagner is out, second-year forward Tristan da Silva is expected to see increased minutes. Da Silva provided efficient scoring and defensive versatility off the bench, giving head coach Jamal Mosley another reliable option in the rotation. Third-year guard Jett Howard could also be called upon to help fill the void, offering perimeter shooting and size on the wing as the team looks to space the floor more.

The Hornets enter Thursday’s game at 2-2, led by All-Star guard LaMelo Ball. However, they will be without the third-year forward Brandon Miller, who is sidelined with a shoulder subluxation. Miller last played in Charlotte’s 125-121 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday, logging nine minutes before exiting with an injury after recording four points and a rebound. Before that, he impressed in the season opener against the Brooklyn Nets, posting 25 points, seven assists, a steal and a block while shooting 8-for-19 from the field in a 136-117 win.

After the Charlotte game, Orlando’s road trip continues with games against the Washington Wizards (1-3) on Saturday at 7pm ET and the Atlanta Hawks (2-3) on Tuesday at 8pm ET. The team will then return to the Kia Center to face the Boston Celtics (2-3) in an effort to regain their footing and re-establish their early season momentum.