Banchero Rebukes ‘Can’t Coexist’ Narrative as Magic Deal With Injuries

Overview

• Paolo Banchero publicly rejected claims he and Franz Wagner don’t fit, telling The Athletic the Magic are at their best when both play.
• Banchero linked his shooting slump to a recent groin strain that cost him 10 games, entering Tuesday at 43.4% from the field and 23.7% from three.
• Coach Jamahl Mosley said Goga Bitadze missed Tuesday’s game in Portland with a left knee strain suffered when he was kicked on a rebound.
• With Jalen Suggs out, rookie Jase Richardson logged extended run, posting 11 points with three turnovers in a loss to the Warriors.
• Debate over the duo’s fit has been fueled by a simple split: Orlando’s .500 mark with both active compared with a better record when one sits.