Report: Magic's Banchero expected to return from oblique injury this week

January 08, 2025 - 1:32pm

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero reacts after making a 3-point shot against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first half of Game 3 of an NBA basketball first-round playoff series, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Orlando, Fla. (John Raoux/AP Photo)

The Orlando Magic may soon be one step closer to whole.

The 2022 first-overall pick Paolo Banchero is expected to return from injury either Thursday or Friday, ESPN's Shams Charania reported on Wednesday.

Banchero, 22, has been out since Oct. 30 due to a torn oblique.

The 2022-23 rookie of the year had enjoyed a strong start through five games, averaging 29 points, 8.8 rebounds and 5.6 assists per contest.

Orlando has managed to chug along despite the absence of Banchero in addition to long-term injuries suffered by fellow star Franz Wagner (torn oblique) and Moe Wagner (torn ACL), while Gary Harris (hamstring) and Jalen Suggs (back strain) have also missed time.

The Magic still sit fourth in the Eastern Conference at 22-16.

They face the Minnesota Timberwolves at home on Thursday before welcoming the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday.

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