Magic fans’ heartbreak as Wembanyama skips Orlando clash
Banchero’s return remains uncertain
The anticipation surrounding Wednesday’s matchup between the Orlando Magic and the San Antonio Spurs was palpable, with fans hopeful for the return of three stars: Victor Wembanyama, Stephon Castle, and Paolo Banchero. However, that optimism has been dashed as the only strain felt will be from the disappointment of Central Florida supporters.
Last season’s thrilling encounter on February 8 remains fresh in the memory, where Banchero’s last-second basket clinched a narrow 112-111 victory for the Magic. Wembanyama, the highly-touted 2023 No. 1 overall pick, missed a crucial jumper in that game, leaving fans yearning for a rematch. Unfortunately, Wembanyama’s calf injury has kept him sidelined for this contest, and fans hoping to see him in action will have to wait until next season, although the Spurs are set to host the Magic again on February 1.
Wembanyama and Castle remain unavailable
Adding to Orlando’s woes, Castle will also miss the game, as confirmed by Spurs coach Mitch Johnson, who noted that neither player was boarding the team plane. “No flight tracking needed. It’s a long trip, so we will see where it goes. They are progressing,” Johnson said, alluding to the statuses of Wembanyama and Castle, who are both recovering from injuries. The duo, both past Rookie of the Year recipients, are working toward rejoining the Spurs on an upcoming four-game road trip that includes stops in Cleveland, New Orleans, and Los Angeles.
Johnson emphasized the importance of caution with his injured players: “They just want to be around, whether they’re able to be on the court or not, and they all want to be on the court as well. Sometimes we’ve got to save them from themselves and do what we think is in the best interest for themselves and for the team.”
Magic receive positive news on Bitadze’s availability
Despite the absence of their star players, the Magic have received some encouraging news regarding their roster. Center Goga Bitadze, who left Monday’s victory against the Chicago Bulls due to a hip issue, is expected to play. After a strong performance that included four blocks, eight points, five rebounds, and three assists, Bitadze will look to replicate that success against the Spurs.
Barring any setbacks, he will be a crucial asset for the Magic as they face the Spurs, who are playing the second game of a back-to-back after meeting the Memphis Grizzlies. Although Franz Wagner is still listed on the injury report due to a protective face mask, he will be available. Unfortunately, both Banchero and his brother Moe Wagner remain unavailable.
Banchero’s recovery timeline and potential return
For Banchero, this game marks his tenth consecutive absence due to a left groin strain. The team’s strategy for his return includes ramping up to full-contact practices, and coach Jamahl Mosley highlighted the importance of being back home this week. This environment will allow the Magic to closely monitor Banchero’s day-to-day progress without the complications of travel.
Banchero has been undergoing treatment and participating in non-contact drills, but has not played since he exited with an injury during a 124-107 win in New York on November 12. Ironically, the Magic will return to Madison Square Garden on Sunday, December 7. If he is not healthy enough to make the trip and does not participate in the upcoming game against the Miami Heat on Friday, his return may instead coincide with the team’s NBA Cup quarterfinal on December 9, which will also take place at the Kia Center.
As the Magic navigate through this challenging stretch, fans can only hope for a swift recovery for their star players. The season continues to unfold, and the stakes remain high as the team seeks to solidify its place in the competitive landscape of the NBA.
