Here’s what you need to know about Banchero’s latest injury woe and when to expect him back in the lineup.
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What is Paolo Banchero’s injury?
Banchero was diagnosed with a torn right oblique, the team announced on Thursday, Oct. 31. He suffered the injury during the fourth quarter of the Magic’s 102-99 loss to the Bulls the previous evening.
Banchero averaged 29.0 points, 8.8 rebounds and 5.6 assists on 49.5 percent shooting to start the year. The 21-year-old became the second-youngest player in NBA history to drop at least 50 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in a single game, only bested by LeBron James (20 years, 80 days).
Banchero’s absence weakens a Magic side that currently sits fourth in the East.
How long is Paolo Banchero out?
The Magic announced on Oct. 31 that Banchero would be out indefinitely. He was scheduled to be evaluated in four-to-six weeks, putting a potential return around Christmas, barring a setback. His return to the floor will be dictated by how his injury responds to treatment.
Banchero provided a positive update on Nov. 18, saying, “This isn’t from the medical team or anything but the way I feel and I’ve been feeling, I think I can get back before Christmas now.”
“If it’s around that time and Arnie [Kander, Magic VP of Player Performance and Wellness] says ‘man no way, you can’t go’ then I’ll listen but if he gives me the green light, then I’mma do it.”
“The way I feel and I’ve been feeling, I think I can get back before Christmas.”@Pp_doesit on when he hopes to be back 👀 pic.twitter.com/DsRpTwgY5L
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 18, 2024
Magic coach Jamahl Mosley provided another update on Dec. 19, telling the media that Banchero has been “on the court” and “able to do some jogging” but still hasn’t been cleared for contact.