Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero is slated to return to the lineup on Friday when the team hosts the Miami Heat, ending a 10-game absence caused by a left groin strain.
Banchero suffered the injury during the Magic’s victory over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Nov. 12. The 2023-24 Kia Rookie of the Year has not played since, yet Orlando has gone 7-3 in his absence.
Before the setback, the 6-foot-10 star was averaging 21.7 points, 8.7 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game. His return gives Orlando a boost ahead of a busy stretch that includes another matchup with Miami on Tuesday in an NBA Cup quarterfinal at Kia Center.
Friday’s game will be the first of four regular-season meetings between the Southeast Division rivals.
Source: ESPN
