The Orlando Magic can breathe a sigh of relief.
Orlando was worried when Paolo Banchero left a game against the Knicks. Banchero did not return after hurting his groin. The word was that when Banchero left the game that Banchero had a groin strain, but imaging was needed to make sure that the injury was not serious.
An MRI was taken of Banchero’s groin, and the news couldn’t be better for the Magic. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the injury revealed a groin strain. He has already been ruled out for the game against the Nets, but he is listed as day-to-day moving forward.
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 04: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic drives against Jalen Johnson #1 of the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter at State Farm Arena on November 04, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Orlando Magic Get Good News With Paolo Banchero’s Injury
Banchero is the best player that Orlando has, so not having him miss an extended period of time is great news. Thus far, the Magic are 10th in the Eastern Conference standings. Losing Banchero for an extended period of time would have been a major issue.
The Magic released an official statement on the injury, as well.
“An MRI conducted this afternoon confirmed that Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero suffered a left groin strain. He sustained the injury in the first half of Wednesday night’s game at New York. He will be out against Brooklyn on Friday night, will continue to be evaluated, and his return will depend on how he responds to treatment.”
Without Banchero in the lineup, Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane will have to carry the offensive load. Bane has been a disappointment so far, sporting the second-lowest net rating of his career. He has struggled to fit in with the Magic.
GettyATLANTA, GEORGIA – NOVEMBER 04: The Orlando Magic bench reacts in the final minutes of their 127-112 loss to the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on November 04, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
The Magic Have a History of Unfortunate Injuries
Last season, the Magic were absolutely plagued with injuries. Banchero, Wagner, and Jalen Suggs all missed significant time with injuries. That derailed any shot they had of making a deep run in the playoffs. Orlando was bounced in the first round against the Celtics.
As long as Banchero doesn’t have any setbacks with this injury, the Magic should have him back on the court fairly soon. It’s clear that they still need chemistry to develop within the starting lineup if they are going to be a serious Eastern Conference contender.
Orlando still feels they can turn it around. Adding Suggs back will help them defensively.
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