Orlando’s latest setback came in the No. 7 vs. No. 8 matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers, where the Magic couldn’t keep pace late in the fourth quarter. The loss snapped a late-season push as they chased their playoff fate.
Franz Wagner faced an injury scare when he bumped knees with Wendell Carter Jr. late in the game, but the Magic’s official injury report lists him as available to play. Wagner walked off gingerly and returned for the final 40 seconds, leaving the arena optimistic about his status.
Wagner’s season has been repeatedly disrupted by injuries. He previously missed significant time with a left ankle issue, after a left high ankle sprain in December, and has logged periods of soreness and rest that limited his minutes. He returned to action in January, then again dealt with left ankle soreness that sidelined him for extended stretches.
Heading into Friday, Wagner is expected to see increased minutes if the season is on the line. Since returning on April 1, he’s averaged 17.2 points on 49.4% shooting and remains a key offensive option for the Magic as they try to secure the playoff spot.
In the regular season, Orlando went 1-3 against the Hornets, a reminder that Friday’s game will not be an easy path to the postseason. The winner will advance to the playoffs, while the loser’s season comes to a close.
