Particle.news
Download on the App Store
15 ARTICLES
·
2h ago

Moe Wagner Returns for Magic, Debuts in Win Over Pelicans

Orlando prioritizes a careful ramp-up, leaving Franz Wagner's status for the upcoming Berlin showcase unresolved.

Dec 21, 2023; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Orlando Magic center Moe Wagner (21) scores a basket against Milwaukee Bucks center Brook Lopez (11)in the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (1) shoots over Orlando Magic forward Noah Penda during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Kevin Kolczynski)
Image
Magic forward Franz Wagner, who was ruled out of his 15th straight game due to a left high ankle sprain, went through shooting drills Friday morning at the AdventHealth Training Center. (Jason Beede/Orlando Sentinel)

Overview

  • Moritz (Moe) Wagner played his first game since December 2024 after ACL surgery, logging 10 minutes off the bench with 8 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists on a minutes restriction.
  • The Magic beat the Pelicans 128-118, flipping the game with a 37-20 fourth quarter; Desmond Bane scored 27, Anthony Black 26 and Paolo Banchero 23 for Orlando.
  • Head coach Jamahl Mosley said Franz Wagner remains out with a left high ankle sprain as he builds conditioning through on-court contact work.
  • Mosley emphasized long-term health over deadlines, noting availability for the NBA Berlin Game and the subsequent London date will depend on how players respond to treatment.
  • Orlando was still without Jalen Suggs (right knee MCL bruise), and Wendell Carter Jr. was ruled out pregame with a right hip strain, prompting further rotation adjustments.