THE Magic of Orlando (22-16) are scheduled to open a three-game homestand Thursday evening in opposition to the Minnesota Timberwolves (19-17). Shams Charania of ESPN reported Wednesday that Paolo Banchero may make his return within the subsequent consecutive matches. The newest harm report has since upgraded All-Star ahead is questionable, citing return to competitors.
Banchero has not performed since October 30, when he scored 31 factors, seven rebounds and 4 assists in a recreation loss to the Chicago Bulls. This efficiency adopted his career-high 50 factors two days earlier in a victory in opposition to the Indiana Pacers. Since then, the ahead has missed 33 video games after struggling a torn proper indirect.
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Paolo Banchero Damage Standing vs. Timberwolves
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Banchero put up a outstanding efficiency in his restricted third season, averaging 29 factors, 8.8 rebounds and 5.6 assists per recreation whereas taking pictures 49.5 % from the sphere and 34.4 % from the sphere. on three in simply 5 appearances. Regardless of its absence, the Magic remained aggressivesecuring the fourth seed within the Japanese Convention with robust contributions from Franz Wagner, Moritz Wagner and Jalen Suggs earlier than their respective accidents.
Thursday evening’s recreation marks the primary assembly between the Magic and the Timberwolves this season. Final yr, the groups break up their season collection, every successful on the street. Banchero carried out nicely in these video games, averaging 20.5 factors, 4.5 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.5 rebounds whereas taking pictures 42.9% from the sphere and 40% from three.
The Orlando Magic will doubtless decide Paolo Banchero’s official standing for the sport in opposition to the Minnesota Timberwolves nearer to the 7:00 p.m. ET tipoff. His potential return may present a big increase to the workforce, offering much-needed reinforcement as they endure a tough stretch of the season.
The Magic, nonetheless coping with accidents to key gamers, look to take care of their place within the Japanese Convention standings. A wholesome Banchero wouldn’t solely elevate their offense but in addition strengthen their efforts to capitalize on residence matchups throughout this significant residence recreation.
