Magic star Franz Wagner returns after 20-game absence

Field Level Media|published: Thu 23rd January, 19:07 2025

NBA: Orlando Magic at Philadelphia 76ers

Dec 6, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (22) controls the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers in the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Orlando Magic star Franz Wagner is back in the lineup Thursday night against the visiting Portland Trail Blazers after missing 20 games due to a torn right oblique.

Wagner was injured Dec. 6 against the Philadelphia 76ers and has missed nearly seven weeks.

"It was a long process," Wagner told reporters. "I'm not the most patient person so it's not that easy for me. It feels good to be done with it."

Wagner was averaging 24.4 points, 5.7 assists and 5.6 rebounds in 25 games before the injury.

The Magic were 16-9 when Wagner was hurt. They have since gone 7-13 -- losing six of their last seven -- without the fourth-year pro.

--Field Level Media