Is Paolo Banchero returning to the NBA Cup tonight? Magic vs. 76ers injury report

The Orlando Magic will be without again franchise star Paolo Banchero as they move into the long-awaited NBA Cup matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night. The Magic have officially ruled Buncher out with a strained left groin as he continues to recover from an injury suffered Nov. 12 against the New York Knicks. Orlando enters the contest at 10-8, looking to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference standings despite their leading scorer being sidelined.

Banchero, who has missed several games since the initial setback, says progress has been made and optimism remains high about the timeframe for his return, even if he is not yet ready.

“I think I’m in a good place, I’m just making some moves,” Banchero told the Orlando Sentinel. “The groin feels really good, so the recovery is going well.”

Paolo Banchero, still sidelined with a groin injury, gets the job before the Magic-Celtics in Boston.

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While he declined to give a specific date for his return, the second-year All-Star didn’t shy away from hinting that his return is close.

“I’m definitely pretty close,” he said. “I don’t know when, but I definitely feel close.”

Magic’s injury report

Magic relies on Franz Wagner, Desmond Bane, and Jalen Suggs in his absence, and Wagner is expected to play Tuesday with a protective face mask. Orlando will be without an arm in the frontcourt, with Moritz Wagner also ruled out with a left knee injury. Colin Castleton is unavailable on G League assignment.

76ers injury report

The 76ers, who are currently in limbo over Joel Embiid’s status, will also enter the NBA Cup clash. Embiid is listed as questionable with a right knee injury, while Tyrese McKay (sprained right shoulder) and Paul George (sprained right ankle) are probable.

Kelly Oubre Jr. (sprained left knee), rookie Adem Bona and VJ Edgecombe remain out.

With Buncher out and more stars with both sides battling injuries, Tuesday’s matchup could hinge on the depth and defensive intensity that fueled Orlando’s strong 10-8 start.

For now, Magic fans will have to wait a little longer. Hope: Buncher’s return comes before the NBA Cup knockout stage, and he returns to the court fully healthy.