NBA Notes: Magic, Franz Wagner, Hornets, Wizards, Anthony Davis

Magic

The Magic finally got to see Franz Wagner again, and that is considered nothing but good news.

After missing nine straight games and 25 of the past 27 with a left ankle injury, Wagner returned Monday night against Milwaukee and did so in unfamiliar fashion. For the first time in his NBA career, he came off the bench.

It didn’t slow him down.

Despite a “very strict” minutes restriction, per Jason Beede of The Orlando Sentinel, Wagner finished with 14 points on 6-of-10 shooting and five assists in just 17 minutes as Orlando rolled past the Bucks, 118-99.

The Magic were careful with him, as expected, but the impact was immediate. Wagner looked comfortable, decisive, and most importantly, healthy.

Orlando will ease him back in, but even a limited Wagner changes how this team looks on both ends.

Hornets

Veteran wing Pat Connaughton signed a two-year, minimum-salary deal that includes a team option for next season, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

Connaughton will earn $1.3 million for the remainder of this season, with the 2026-27 option checking in at $3.8 million.

Meanwhile, Tosan Evbuomwan’s new two-way contract is a two-year deal running through 2026-27, per Hoops Rumors. That puts him in the same bucket as PJ Hall, while Antonio Reeves remains the only Hornets two-way player on a one-year pact.

Wizards

Anthony Davis has become the pivot point.

Cap expert Yossi Gozlan of The Third Apron took a deep dive into Washington’s blockbuster acquisition of Davis, and the conclusion is pretty straightforward.

Unless Davis is willing to take less than max money on his next deal, Gozlan doesn’t see a clear path for the Wizards to justify an extension unless Davis stays healthy and performs at a high level for a sustained stretch.

Basically, Washington is watching, waiting, and hoping availability finally matches ability.