Even without the presence of his American-Italian, all-world running mate, Franz Wagner — in carrying a heightened offensive burden — used his versatile skill set to ensure that overseas greats in NBA lore remained well-represented. Slowly beginning to create scoreboard separation in their NBA Cup-opening clash against their Southeast Division foes, Wagner migrates towards the left elbow in preparation of a back-to-basket test against Cody Martin and his double team. In a well-paid tribute to a Hall of Fame, fellow German-born great from the league’s Southwest, Wagner balances into a spin-and-pivot, setting the foundation for a one-legged 14-footer that sinks through the nylon. Wagner’s shot chart, similarly, was of the around-the-globe type, as he utilized all three levels to put forth a 32-point statement (on 14-of-25 shooting), accompanied by eight rebounds, five assists, three steals, two 3-pointers, and a +19 plus-minus. Following in his lead, the Orlando Magic, through two-sided brilliance, overwhelmed the Charlotte Hornets for a 25-point triumph on November 12, 2024. · Nov 13, 2024