TITLE: Anthony Black’s 38-Point Outburst Sparks Magic Comeback; Team Provides Multiple Injury Updates
SLUG: magic-black-38-point-comeback-injury-updates
CONTENT:
Third-year guard Anthony Black poured in a career-best 38 points to lead the Orlando Magic past the Denver Nuggets on Saturday, December 28, capping the second night of a back-to-back with a 117-111 victory at Amway Center.
Orlando trailed by as many as 17 in the third quarter before turning the game with pressure defense and transition baskets. Black shot 14-for-24 from the field and 7-for-11 from beyond the arc while adding six rebounds, five assists and two steals in 30 minutes.
“He laid the foundation for a great season with the way he approached the summer,” guard Desmond Bane said. “He’s a special player and he’s only going to get better.”
Head coach Jamahl Mosley credited Black’s aggressiveness on both ends, noting the guard’s willingness to attack the rim and accept tough defensive assignments. Team writer Josh Cohen has placed Black in the early discussion for Most Improved Player honors.
Injury and Availability Notes
Jalen Suggs missed his sixth straight game with a left hip contusion. “I don’t know how close, but I’m preparing to be back on the court with my brothers,” the guard said.
Second-year forward Tristan Da Silva, slowed earlier this month by a bruised right shoulder, returned Friday and followed with 17 points on 7-of-11 shooting and five rebounds in 30 minutes against Denver. “I’m excited to step back out there again,” he said.
Franz Wagner (high left ankle sprain) is limited to spot shooting, while older brother Moritz Wagner, one year removed from an ACL tear, will soon progress to 2-on-2 and 3-on-3 contact work. No timetable has been set for either player’s return, Mosley said.
Rookie forward Noah Penda, the 32nd pick in the 2025 draft, has earned praise for his hustle with the roster shorthanded. “We all know what he brings on the defensive end, but I’m proud of him for having confidence in his shot,” Bane said.
Source: HoopsRumors
