Rookie Franz Wagner’s big night wasn’t enough to lead the Orlando Magic past the reigning-champion Milwaukee Bucks.
“I think I did a good job not forcing it,” Wagner – who had 38 points and seven rebounds on 12-20 shooting from the field and 10-10 shooting from the line – said after the game, via Bally Sports Florida.
The Magic lost to the Bucks 127-110.
Wagner, 20, was selected eighth overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Magic.
In 35 games, Wagner has averaged 15.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists on 45%/36%/83% shooting splits.
The Magic’s top 2021 draft pick, Jalen Suggs, has played just 22 games, averaging 12.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists on 34%/26%/76% shooting splits.
Wagner has been impressive – but the Magic still sit in second to last place in the Eastern Conference with a dismal 7-28 record.
Perhaps things will change with the return of Jonathan Isaac and Markelle Fultz.