The Orlando Magic will lean heavily on superstar Paolo Banchero to lead them toward Finals contention this season, but for the team to become true contenders, the growth must come from his co-star, Franz Wagner.
Last season, Wagner emerged as a key contributor when Banchero suffered a lengthy injury. He put up career-high numbers and looked poised to take his game to the next level.
Unfortunately, Wagner then battled his own injury, sidelining him for an extended period. He returned in time for the playoffs, but while his scoring remained solid, his efficiency suffered particularly from beyond the arc, where he shot just 18 percent in the first round against the Boston Celtics.
Over the summer, Wagner dedicated himself to refining his jump shot. The results were apparent during EuroBasket. While he didn’t suddenly become a perimeter sniper, the adjustments he made correcting a hitch that had hindered his shot were clearly visible and provided optimism for his upcoming season.
Still, entering his fifth NBA season, Wagner enters with something to prove. Bleacher Report lists him as a player whose efficiency as a second option will be closely watched this year, putting extra emphasis on his ability to complement Banchero while maintaining consistent production.
“If October and November were the only months that counted, Franz Wagner wouldn't have anything to prove,” Bleacher Report wrote. “His scorching start last season, much of which came during Paolo Banchero's time on the shelf, had Wagner firmly in the discussion for All-NBA first team. He averaged 23.6 points, 5.8 assists and 5.5 rebounds on a 47.4/35.4/85.3 shooting split through Nov. 29. Wagner finished the season shooting 29.5 percent from long distance on a career-high 5.9 attempts per game. It was his second straight season hitting fewer than 30.0 percent of his treys.”
With the offseason improvements and additions on the perimeter, Wagner’s efficiency is expected to rise, as he can now trust his teammates’ three-point shooting off assists, reducing the need for hero ball and limiting iso plays that lead to poor shot selection.
“The Magic are looking to take a leap with the acquisition of Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones to help the offense,” the article added. “It's going to be difficult for them to truly frighten top-end opponents if they have a high-volume offensive weapon missing seven out of every 10 triples he tries. Wagner is a terrific all-around player, but he has a glaring flaw. Considering Orlando's ambitions and the fact that it maxed him out last summer, Wagner needs to step it up. Otherwise, the Magic might need to look for a more efficient second option behind Banchero.”
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