The news hit hard after the All-Star Break when the Magic gathered in Sacramento without Franz Wagner, sidelined indefinitely due to a sore left ankle. With a re-evaluation set for three weeks later, Wagner is expected to miss at least 11 of the 29 games remaining. And even after that, he'll need some time to ramp up.
Wagner isn't completely sidelined, though. He was feeling good enough to play before the break, but the pain became too much. The decision to rest and build strength was mutual between him and the team, keeping an eye on long-term health.
This situation has left the Magic and their fans frustrated, but no one more so than Wagner himself. “Very frustrating.
Obviously, I want to be out there and help the team,” Wagner shared before Tuesday’s game against the Lakers. His focus now is on recovery and ensuring a healthy return.
Wagner rejoined the team in Los Angeles post-break, but the waiting game continues. Known for his resilience, missing a significant chunk of the season has been tough for him.
Wagner's troubles began with a high ankle sprain in December against the Knicks. Since then, he's missed 29 of the last 33 games, with brief returns during the team’s European trip and just before the break.
His attempts to return have been marred by setbacks. Wagner admitted he might have rushed back for a homecoming game in Berlin, only for soreness to flare up again in London. This led to another shutdown for nine games before his brief pre-break return.
Wagner is determined to make his next comeback stick. He's been working out and staying active, which could mean a quicker return once cleared. The Magic know they need him for their playoff push, and his presence is a morale boost.
"His energy, what he brings to the squad, he's part of what we do here," Moe Wagner said. "He's a huge part of what we do.
We want him back as soon as possible. Just his humility and the normalness, I would say, is very refreshing."
Both the Magic and Franz Wagner are eager for a stable return. His previous attempts were frustratingly short-lived, and the team craves consistency.
Wagner's impact is undeniable, averaging 21.3 points per game and shooting a career-best 36.5 percent from three. His standout season is crucial for the Magic's playoff aspirations.
"Every game from here on out is really important for us," Wagner noted. "The way the season has gone is not how we wanted it before the year. We have a lot of things in our own hands, and that is always a good thing."
The Magic have been holding their own since the break, going 3-1 on their West Coast trip and winning six of their last eight games. With momentum building, another strong homestand could propel them up the standings.
Wagner is set for a re-evaluation on March 11. His readiness and health will dictate his next steps, but his eagerness to return and contribute is palpable. Patience is key, but the Magic are optimistic about having him back in action soon.