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As the Orlando Magic prepare for a high-stakes NBA Cup clash on Friday, the team’s injury concerns have become a central storyline heading into the matchup. With key players sidelined and lineup adjustments imminent, Orlando must navigate a challenging personnel situation while fighting to advance from East Group B.
Magic enter crucial contest on a scoring high
The Magic arrive in Detroit carrying confidence after delivering one of their most dominant offensive performances in franchise history. Earlier this week, Orlando erupted for a 144-103 win over the Philadelphia 76ers, a game defined by their explosive second quarter in which they outscored the Sixers 51-25 while shooting an extraordinary 74.1% from the floor. Those 51 points marked the most scored in any single quarter in the team’s history.
Anthony Black led the surge with a career-best 31 points, Franz Wagner added 21, and Desmond Bane contributed 15 as Orlando set another milestone—nine players scored in double figures, a new franchise record. Black also became the 14th reserve in Magic history to reach the 30-point threshold.
With the Magic sitting at 11-8, the stakes on Friday are clear: a win secures their place in the knockout round as East Group B champions. Even with a loss, their impressive +61 point differential keeps them firmly in wild-card contention.
Orlando Magic Injury Report: Key players ruled out
Orlando’s strong momentum is accompanied by a notable list of injuries. Several important contributors will not be available for Friday’s game, creating both challenges and opportunities within the rotation.
Here’s the latest injury report:
Paolo Banchero (Groin) – Out
Jamal Cain (Two-Way Contract) – Out
Colin Castleton (Two-Way Contract) – Out
Orlando Robinson (Two-Way Contract) – Out
Moe Wagner (Knee) – Out
Banchero’s absence is the biggest blow for Orlando. The former No. 1 pick remains a focal point of the team’s offensive structure, and without him, the Magic will rely heavily on Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane to drive scoring and playmaking.
Moe Wagner’s knee issue further limits Orlando’s frontcourt depth, placing additional responsibility on Wendell Carter Jr. and the rest of the interior rotation.
Projected starting lineup for Orlando Magic
With several pieces unavailable, the Magic are expected to roll out the following starting five:
Franz Wagner
Tristan da Silva
Wendell Carter Jr.
Desmond Bane
Jalen Suggs
Friday’s matchup doubles as both a test of depth and an opportunity to reinforce the team’s early-season identity.
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