The Orlando Magic could be without Franz Wagner in a crucial Game 5 of their first-round series against the Detroit Pistons. A pair of road wins has been the difference, as the Magic are now one win away from advancing to the second round for the first time since 2010.
Wagner, who has been instrumental in pushing past the top-seeded Pistons, exited Orlando’s 94-88 win on Monday with a calf strain and did not return for the remainder of the game. He had 22 points, five rebounds and three assists on 7-of-15 shooting before the injury cut his night short.
Shams Charania of ESPN reported that it may take a day or so before the team has a clearer picture of the severity of Franz Wagner’s injury.
The former Michigan star has had trouble staying healthy this season, playing only 34 games due to an ankle sprain. While his return has sparked offense for the Magic’s recent success, the timing of this latest injury looks like a concern. Considering all of Orlando’s three wins, Wagner’s impact has been clearly evident.
The 24-year-old is averaging 16.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.8 steals while shooting 43.9% this series. His aggressive yet controlled and structured play has helped the Magic in a big way. His defense on Cade Cunningham over the last three games has also played a key role, forcing him into 24 turnovers, tied for the highest total in a three-game span in NBA playoff history.
Players playing through injuries in the playoffs is a tale as old as time. Franz Wagner’s physical presence will definitely be missed if he sits out the crucial Game 5. He is listed as questionable and is expected to undergo late medical tests before a final decision is made on his status.
The Magic lead the series 3-1. With a win on Wednesday, they can become just the seventh eighth-seeded team in history to knock off a top-seeded team in the first round.
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