The Orlando Magic will face a tough test when they host the Phoenix Suns on Sunday without two key players. Paolo Banchero’s torn right oblique and Franz Wagner’s broken right oblique will be absent, leaving coach to find a way to function with a shorthanded lineup.
Orlando is already down one star, but now it must adapt again due to Wagner’s injury. His return will depend on treatment, and he’ll be re-evaluated in four weeks. Banchero’s comeback timeline remains uncertain, adding pressure to the Magic’s chances.
The team has a lack of practice time with its new lineup, making it difficult to keep up with the Suns’ strong offense. Phoenix ranks top eight in 3-pointers made and 37.5 3-point percentage per game. The Suns also excel in ball security, allowing few points off turnovers and minimizing second-chance opportunities.
Despite missing a superstar like Kevin Durant, Devin Booker remains an effective player. He’s averaging 24.9 points per game and recently reached 15,000 career points at age 25.
Injuries are mounting for Orlando, with Jonathan Isaac dealing with a sore right hamstring. Gary Harris is out due to a left hamstring strain, and Jalen Suggs had a standout performance against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday.
Source: https://www.nba.com/magic/news/orlando-magic-phoenix-suns-game-preview-injury-report-20241208