The Orlando Magic have faced another setback with forward Moritz “Moe” Wagner sustaining a season-ending ACL tear, as confirmed by the team on Sunday. Wagner’s MRI results revealed the extent of the injury, leading to the decision for season-ending surgery.
Moritz Wagner underwent an MRI today and results revealed that Wagner has sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament.
Wagner will undergo surgery and miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season. pic.twitter.com/kfWhIi0VaX
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) December 22, 2024
Orlando is currently dealing with injuries to key players Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, both sidelined with torn obliques. Banchero’s injury occurred in late October, while Franz Wagner’s oblique tear happened on Dec. 7, keeping him out indefinitely.
Wagner suffered his ACL tear during the recent game against the Miami Heat, where the Magic made a remarkable comeback from a 25-point deficit to secure the victory. Wagner’s playing time was cut short to just a minute and a half due to the injury.
The 27-year-old forward has been a significant contributor off the bench for Orlando, averaging 12.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 18:48 minutes per game. He currently ranks second in the league for total points scored off the bench with 372 points this season.
With key players like the Wagner brothers and Banchero out of action, the Magic are looking to Jalen Suggs for leadership. However, Suggs’ availability is also in question after missing the last game due to an ankle sprain sustained earlier.
Despite the challenges, Orlando holds a record of 18-12 this season, placing them fourth in the Eastern Conference. The team recently reached the NBA Cup semifinals but was defeated by the Milwaukee Bucks, the eventual champions, while dealing with multiple injuries.