After missing the last 20 games with a torn right oblique, rising star Orlando Magic small forward Franz Wagner will make his return to action against one of the NBA's worst teams by record, the 15-28 Portland Trail Blazers, on Thursday night.
Franz Wagner will play tonight vs. Portland. pic.twitter.com/Siwt62ltb3
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) January 23, 2025
Trail Blazers starting center Deandre Ayton's status remains up in the air, unfortunately. The 6-foot-11 big man is questionable to play through what is officially being described as left knee soreness.
Two other Portland starters, forward Toumani Camara (illness) and point guard Anfernee Simons (low back soreness), are also questionable.
INJURY REPORT 1/23 @ ORL:
— Trail Blazers PR (@TrailBlazersPR) January 22, 2025
OUT
Donovan Clingan (L Ankle Sprain)
Matisse Thybulle (R Ankle Sprain)
QUESTIONABLE
Deandre Ayton (L Knee Soreness)
Toumani Camara (Illness)
Kris Murray (Chest Contusion)
Anfernee Simons (Low Back Soreness)
Read More: Deandre Ayton Injury Status for Blazers vs Magic
Wagner's comeback is much needed for Orlando, which could still miss several key rotation players against Portland.
Orlando was looking to be in the running for a top-3 seed in the Eastern Conference early in the season, before both Wagner and All-Star power forward Paolo Banchero incurred oblique injuries and missed multiple months. Now, the Magic are 23-22 on the year after losing four straight, and have plummeted to the East's No. 7 seed.
Blazers Predicted to Land $51 Million Wing in Swap for Jerami Grant
Donovan Clingan Injury Status for Blazers vs Heat
For the latest Portland Trail Blazers news and notes, stay glued to Trail Blazers On SI.
This story will be updated...
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!