Latest Injury Update on Giannis Antetokounmpo & Paolo Banchero Ahead of Intense Bucks vs Magic Clash

The Orlando Magic had been hit with one of the worst injury bugs this season. Anyone who steps up to perform wasn’t on the roster for long. First, it was Paolo Banchero, then Franz Wagner, Moe Wagner, and Jalen Suggs. But there could be some good news. On Friday, the Milwaukee Bucks will face off against the Magic.

According to Chris Haynes, All-Star forward, Paolo Banchero, could return against the Bucks on Friday. Banchero’s injury happened early in the season, during the Magic‘s fifth game, which really threw off their momentum after a solid playoff run last year.

Since then, Banchero remained on the sidelines for 34 games. Sadly, he didn’t play on Thursday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, as he’s still listed as questionable on the injury report as of Thursday afternoon. The Bucks are riding high after their recent win against the San Antonio Spurs. Now, they’ll be looking to build on that momentum and keep the streak going.

Let us take a look at both teams’ injury reports and depth charts before their matchup.

Can the Bucks win against the Magic and reach the top 4 in the East?

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s status for Friday’s game against the Magic looks good, as he’s listed as probable despite dealing with right patella tendinopathy. He’s been playing through it, and in the last five games, he’s been on fire, averaging 24.8 points, 12.8 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.2 blocks in 34.9 minutes per game. Those are incredible numbers.

Damian Lillard is also probable for Friday, fighting through a left calf contusion. If you’ve been watching, you know he logged a solid 35 minutes in his last game, so it seems unlikely he’ll be held back if cleared to play.

As for Khris Middleton, he’s set to make his second straight appearance despite his ongoing ankle issues. He’s listed as probable but has been pushing through bilateral ankle problems.

On the flip side, Ryan Rollins is in jeopardy of missing his first game since December 14 because of a non-COVID illness. He’s had a bit of an inconsistent role lately, averaging 4.5 points, 1.7 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in about 11.2 minutes per game this season. He’s listed as questionable. The Bucks could be shorthanded if both their stars, Lillard and Antetokounmpo, don’t suit up.

Will the Magic cruise to victory if Banchero makes his comeback?

As the Magic are on a back-to-back, they aren’t required to submit their injury report hours before the tipoff. This is based on their previous report against the Timberwolves. Paolo Banchero was officially out for Thursday’s matchup against the Timberwolves due to an oblique injury. But he could suit up against the Bucks.

As for Franz Wagner, things aren’t looking too great either. Despite being diagnosed with an oblique tear over a month ago, Wagner still hasn’t been cleared for contact. Then, there’s the news on Moritz Wagner—he underwent successful surgery on his torn ACL in his left knee. Sadly, he’s done for the rest of the season. On top of that, Jalen Suggs will also sit out Thursday’s game. He’s been battling a back injury after diagnosed with a lower back strain.

Finally, Gary Harris didn’t suit up either due to a hamstring issue. The Magic is definitely going to feel these absences. With so many guys sidelined, it’ll be tough for Orlando.

So who do you think will win? The Bucks with or without Antetokounmpo? Or the Magic with Banchero?

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