The Orlando Magic are preparing for the loss of Anthony Black for an indefinite period after an MRI confirmed a left lateral abdominal muscle strain. Franz Wagner also remains sidelined with a left high ankle sprain, with no clear timeline for his return. These injuries present significant challenges as the Magic aim to secure a higher playoff seed in the Eastern Conference.
Details of Anthony Black’s Injury and Team Response
Anthony Black’s injury occurred during Saturday’s 119-92 victory over Minnesota, when he left the game after just two minutes following a drive to the basket. According to head coach Jamahl Mosley, Black appeared to have his shoulder grabbed on the play, although the initial diagnosis listed it as a low back strain prior to Tuesday’s MRI results.
Black’s condition will be monitored closely, with the Magic stating his return
“will depend on how he responds to treatment.”
— Orlando Magic statement
This marks Black’s second injury setback in February; he previously missed two games due to a quadriceps issue before returning against Minnesota.
Franz Wagner’s Prolonged Rehabilitation Continues
Franz Wagner has been out since February 11 due to his left high ankle sprain and remains without an estimated return date. The organization noted he
“continues to progress”
but emphasized his comeback
“will continue to depend on how he responds to rehabilitation.”
— Orlando Magic statement
Before his injury, Wagner had appeared in 28 games this season, averaging 21.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. With Wagner sidelined, Tristan da Silva and Noah Penda have been tasked with increasing their playing time to fill the gap.
Impact of Injuries on Orlando’s Playoff Push
The Magic have been gaining momentum despite key injuries, currently riding a four-game winning streak that includes an emphatic 130-91 win over Milwaukee on Sunday. Orlando’s strong performance has positioned them seventh in the Eastern Conference with a 34-28 record, just one game shy of fifth-seeded Toronto and tied with Philadelphia for sixth.
In Sunday’s game, Paolo Banchero led the charge with 33 points, supported by Jalen Suggs’ 20 points and Desmond Bane’s 18 points and nine assists. The Magic shot 42.4 percent from three-point range and aggressively contained Milwaukee early, limiting the Bucks to only nine points in the first 10 minutes of the third quarter. The Bucks’ lineup was notably weakened without Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kyle Kuzma, and Kevin Porter Jr., and they committed 16 turnovers.
Looking Ahead: Magic’s Depth and Upcoming Challenges
With Black’s status uncertain for upcoming games and Wagner already out, the Magic will rely heavily on their remaining roster to maintain their playoff positioning. The team’s ability to adapt and overcome these setbacks will be crucial as the postseason approaches, with their depth tested like never before under the leadership of coach Jamahl Mosley.
Anthony Black underwent an MRI yesterday, which showed a left lateral abdominal muscle strain. His return will depend on how he responds to treatment.
Franz Wagner (left high ankle sprain) continues to progress. His return will continue to depend on how he responds to…
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) March 10, 2026
