Magic Lean on Jones-Bane Backcourt; Carter Shines, Suggs Rehab Slows, Achiuwa Returns to Heat, Hornets Praise Knueppel
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The Orlando Magic opened Friday’s preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers with the same starting five they used earlier in the week: newly signed guard Tyus Jones, trade pickup Desmond Bane, and holdovers Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero and Wendell Carter Jr.
Head coach Jamahl Mosley highlighted Carter’s impact after the 26-year-old center produced 20 points, 13 rebounds and three assists in just 21 minutes during a 30-point win. “When he plays with that presence, that poise and that strength for our team, it goes such a long way,” Mosley said.
Orlando’s first wave off the bench consisted of rookie guard Anthony Black, second-year guard Jase Richardson, second-year wing Jett Howard, rookie forward Tristan Da Silva and veteran center Goga Bitadze. Four of the five were first-round picks in the last three drafts; Bitadze was signed as a free agent last season.
Slow Build for Suggs
The Magic are still taking a cautious approach with guard Jalen Suggs, sidelined since January by a left knee injury. President of basketball operations Jeff Weltman recently targeted opening night for Suggs’ return, but Mosley said before Friday’s game that the guard has only participated in limited contact. “We’re slowly ramping him up,” Mosley explained, noting Suggs has done 5-on-0 work but little full contact. “As we go on the next couple weeks, we’ll be able to see and tell more from that.”
Achiuwa Back in Miami
Forward/center Precious Achiuwa, unsigned for most of the offseason, accepted a non-guaranteed training-camp deal with the Miami Heat in late September. Drafted by Miami in 2020 and dealt to Toronto a year later, Achiuwa said the reunion fits his style. “I think there’s some unfinished business,” he said. “A lot of tenacity, a lot of intensity. So I feel right at home here.”
Charlotte Rookie Turning Heads
Charlotte Hornets wing Brandon Miller lauded No. 4 overall pick Kon Knueppel’s performance in camp and preseason. “Definitely a great competitor,” Miller said. “He’s going to have a great career in this league… hats off to him for coming in with the most confidence.” Miller, the No. 2 pick in 2023, added that the team will continue to support the rookie’s development.
Source: Hoops Rumors
