Franz Wagner is back-and the timing couldn’t be better for the Orlando Magic.
After missing over a month with a high ankle sprain suffered on December 7 against the Knicks, the versatile forward is officially available for Thursday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. And the return isn’t just a boost for the Magic-it’s a homecoming. The game takes place in Wagner’s hometown of Berlin, adding a special layer to what’s already a key moment in Orlando’s season.
During Wagner’s absence, the Magic managed to stay afloat, going 8-8 without one of their most dynamic two-way players. That’s no small feat in a competitive Eastern Conference. But make no mistake: getting Franz back in the mix is a major development for a team that’s currently sitting sixth in the East with a 22-18 record.
Before the injury, Wagner was putting together a strong campaign, averaging 22.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.2 steals over 24 games. Those are the kind of numbers that speak to his all-around impact.
He’s not just a scorer-he’s a connector, a defender, and a playmaker. His 17.3% assist percentage ranks in the 85th percentile among wings, according to Cleaning the Glass, which gives you a sense of how much he contributes to Orlando’s ball movement and offensive flow.
Adding to the emotional weight of the night, Franz will be sharing the court again with his older brother, Moritz Wagner, who recently returned from a long road back after an ACL tear. For the Wagner brothers, it’s a reunion in every sense-back in action, back in Berlin, and back to helping the Magic push forward in a tightly packed playoff race.
Franz’s return won’t just be felt in the box score. His ability to guard multiple positions, create off the dribble, and make smart reads in transition gives Orlando a different gear-something they’ve missed during his time on the sideline. And if he can pick up where he left off, the Magic may be poised to make a serious second-half push.
For now, all eyes are on Berlin, where one of the NBA’s most promising young forwards steps back onto the court-this time, in front of a hometown crowd.