As shorthanded as Franz Wagner and the Orlando Magic were when they closed a five-game road trip in Philadelphia, they could always rely on one logical truth: it’s more difficult to be flat when shooting right at the rim. Still in the early stages of his inside-the-arc masterclass, Wagner showcases off-ball IQ, punishing Caleb Martin’s overly-tight defense with a perfect cut towards the rim. Parallel to the rim when all is said and done, Orlando’s star forward takes his opportunity, elevating over Guerschon Yabusele’s extended reach for a two-handed facial. The month before injury illustrated Wagner’s rise to stardom, as he produced a 27.6-point scoring average over the month. Extraordinary from both the midrange and painted area, Wagner led December 4, 2024’s win over the Philadelphia 76ers, totalling 35 points, seven rebounds, two assists, one block, and one triple, alongside elite percentages overall (12-of-23) and from the charity stripe (10-of-10). · Dec 5, 2024