Paolo Banchero Rejects Claims He Can’t Fit With Franz Wagner

Overview

• Addressing recent chatter, Banchero called suggestions about an on-court mismatch with Wagner unfounded and said Orlando is strongest with both playing.
• A small-sample split has fueled the debate, with the Magic 7–7 when both are available and 10–6 when at least one is out through 30 games.
• Banchero entered the week at 43.4% from the field and a career-low 23.7% from three after missing 10 games, describing the groin issue as a setback.
• Coach Jamahl Mosley said Goga Bitadze’s left knee strain came from being kicked while rebounding, and Bitadze sat out the back-to-back in Portland.
• With Jalen Suggs out, rookie Jase Richardson logged extended minutes but committed three turnovers against Golden State, while Wendell Carter Jr. continued efficient shooting at 54.1% overall and 42.2% from deep.