Magic Locking Down Opponents As Franz Wagner Shines, Showing Again They’re No Pushovers

The Magic aren’t just showing signs of life — they’re showing signs of purpose. In a league where teams often sink when injuries pile up, Orlando has found a way to rise, thanks in large part to Franz Wagner.

Wagner has taken his game to another level during this critical stretch. With Paolo Banchero sidelined and several other key players watching from the bench, Wagner has stepped forward like a veteran.

Over his past seven games, he’s averaging 27.4 points and 6.1 rebounds, shooting a respectable 46% from the field.

It’s not just the numbers, though. Wagner has consistently been the guy Orlando turns to when they need a bucket, and he’s delivering with precision and poise. His current streak of seven consecutive games with at least 20 points ties the longest of his career — a testament to his steady growth.

What’s just as impressive, though, is how the Magic are locking teams down defensively. In an era where teams routinely score 120 points a night, Orlando has held six straight opponents under 100 points.

That’s a feat we haven’t seen since 2018, when teams were playing a slightly slower brand of basketball. Credit goes to head coach Jamahl Mosley, who has this group bought in on the defensive end.

Now, this isn’t to say the Magic are suddenly world-beaters. They’re still waiting on Banchero and others to return, and depth remains an issue.

But there’s a grit about this team, an attitude that says they’re not just here to fill a spot in the standings.

Wagner has been the face of that effort. At just 22 years old, he’s looking like a franchise cornerstone. And for a team like Orlando, that’s a reason to believe.

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