As insane as it may be, the Orlando Magic are in third place in the Eastern Conference. It’s insane, considering their only legitimate superstar, Paolo Banchero, has missed a significant amount of time. However, others have stepped up in a timely and massive fashion, including Franz Wagner, whose impact has not gone unnoticed. Magic teammate Kentavious Caldwell-Pope recently hyped up his German colleague, raving about his game and offensive heater.
Magic Vet Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Raves about a ‘Monster’
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope Calls Magic Running-mate Franz Wagner a ‘Monster’
On his podcast, Dawg Talk, KCP raved about Wagner and how he has stepped up for the Magic in place of Banchero, who went down with an injury several weeks ago. In fact, not only has Wagner made an impression, but the entire Magic team has also. Remarkably, Orlando has more than managed to stay above water in Banchero’s absence. They have put together a solid 16-8 record and sit behind the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers for third in the East. Again, this is all without their All-Star and franchise player, Banchero.
Others have stepped up considerably, resulting in the Magic being where they are in the standings. One of those said “others” is Wagner, one half of Orlando’s German brother duo, Moritz Wagner being the second half. As for Franz, he is quickly making a name for himself, and deservedly so. His most recent testament to his budding stardom came in a 35-point performance earlier this week against the Philadelphia 76ers. KCP took to his podcast to praise Wagner’s play, calling him his ‘dawg of the week.’ [32.20 mark]
“…that man has been really stepping up for us, scoring the ball, being that floor general on the court, putting everybody in position, averaging 27 and six, which is f*****g All-Star numbers. He is going to be an All-Star this year. He’s been that dog for us, and keeping the team together, all of us. He’s been outstanding for what he’s been doing, and the numbers he’s putting up. The last 13 games, he only scored I think 14 points once in one of those games…he’s been a monster. He’s going crazy.”
Franz’s Play Speaks to Orlando’s Depth
What does this tell us about the Magic in light of Wagner’s impact? It says that this team is deep and goes well beyond Banchero. That’s no disrespect on his name, either. The man is truly a superstar—elite, elite, elite. KCP even mentioned that the success Orlando is putting together is without their best player. If a former NBA champion recognizes that, so should us outsiders. Wagner’s emergence comes at the perfect timing, too. He has never put up these offensive numbers in his four years in the league, all in Orlando. It’s not only Wagner stepping up in Banchero’s absence, either. Jalen Suggs is also playing great ball, as is Franz’s brother Mo, Anthony Black, Jonathan Isaac, and, of course, KCP, who brings veteran leadership and championship pedigree to the locker room.
Evidently, the Magic are not to be taken lightly, Banchero present or not. This team looks ready to build off last season’s playoff berth, and they already look much better than last year, which is scary. More good news: Banchero recently returned to the court and is on his path to returning to play. Until then, it’s Franz’s team to carry.
