Orlando forward Franz Wagner left Monday’s Game 4 against Detroit midway through the third quarter with what the club labeled as right calf soreness. The 24-year-old told reporters he felt the calf tighten “about a minute” before being subbed out and will undergo an MRI on Tuesday. Wagner said he is “hopeful” he can play in Thursday’s Game 5.
Despite his absence, the Magic shut down the Pistons in the second half, allowing just 36 points to secure a 94-88 victory and a 3-1 series lead. Detroit, winner of 60 regular-season games, must now win three straight to stay alive as the matchup shifts back to Michigan.
Other injury updates around the league
Minnesota: Head coach Chris Finch, speaking Sunday on KFAN FM 100.3, expressed confidence that Anthony Edwards could return this spring if the Timberwolves win one more game against Denver without him. Edwards is officially week-to-week with a hyperextended knee and bone bruise, but Finch noted the guard “generally comes back ahead of the timeline.”
Denver: After the Nuggets’ Game 5 win Monday, interim coach David Adelman said he has “no idea” whether forwards Aaron Gordon (calf) or Peyton Watson (hamstring) will be ready for Thursday’s Game 6 in Minnesota. Adelman added he will prepare as if both players will remain sidelined, although the extra off day could aid their recovery.
Philadelphia: Center Joel Embiid posted 26 points, 10 rebounds and six assists in Sunday’s Game 4, his first appearance since an April appendectomy. Philadelphia was outscored by 25 during Embiid’s 34 minutes and dropped the contest by 32. Listed as probable for Tuesday’s Game 5, Embiid acknowledged postgame that his recovery included complications stemming from the emergency surgery.
Source: Hoops Rumors
