Magic may be without key player for crucial Game 5

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Magic may be without key player for crucial Game 5

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Apr 28, 2026 3:22 PM ET

The Orlando Magic may have to win shorthanded in Wednesday’s Game 5 if they want to close out the Detroit Pistons.

Franz Wagner, who left Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinal in the third quarter with a calf issue, has been diagnosed with a right calf strain, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. His availability will depend on how the injury responds to treatment between now and Wednesday.

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner has been diagnosed with a right calf strain and his availability for Game 5 against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday is uncertain and will depend on response to treatment, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/C1xWoqVrsl
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 28, 2026

Wagner has been essential to the 3-1 series lead the Magic have built. He scored 19 points in Game 4 before departing, and he essentially acted as the closer in Game 3 to hold off a late Detroit rally.

Only Paolo Banchero and Desmond Bane have averaged more points per game in the series so far than Wagner has.

The Magic have outplayed the top-seeded Pistons through the first four games of the series, and they will want to close out the favorite as quickly as possible. Plus, Wagner has some playoff demons he would like to do away with.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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