Franz Wagner Cleared to Play in NBA’s First Regular-Season Game in Germany
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Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner is set to take the court on Thursday when the club faces the Memphis Grizzlies in Berlin, marking his first appearance since suffering a high ankle sprain on December 7.
Wagner, 22, was removed from the injury report and will end a 16-game absence that began after he hurt his left ankle against the New York Knicks. Before the setback, the third-year wing averaged 23.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.2 steals across 23 games, shooting 48.7 percent from the field, 35.4 percent from three and 82.3 percent at the foul line in 34.5 minutes per night.
Thursday’s contest at Mercedes-Benz Arena is the NBA’s first regular-season game in Germany and carries added meaning for the Berlin-born Wagner brothers. Moritz Wagner returned from an ACL tear on Sunday and will make just his second appearance since the injury he sustained in December 2024.
“It felt awesome,” the veteran center said after his season debut, reflecting on the opportunity to play again in front of fans. “To be able to engage after such a long time, it’s really cool and very fulfilling.”
Orlando has navigated several injuries yet enters the Berlin matchup 22-18, holding a top-six spot in the Eastern Conference. The roster still isn’t at full strength: guard Jalen Suggs will miss his sixth straight game with a right knee MCL contusion.
Source: Hoops Rumors
