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[Saba Sports News] Paolo Banchero’s stellar third season is now on pause.
Shams Charania of The Athletic reported Thursday that Orlando Magic star Banchero has suffered a torn oblique, sidelining him indefinitely.
Banchero will be re-evaluated in four-to-six weeks, with his return timeline dependent on his recovery progress.
This is a tough setback for the 21-year-old, who was off to an exceptional start to the 2024-25 season. The No. 1 overall pick in 2022, Banchero earned NBA Rookie of the Year honors in 2023 and made the All-Star team last season.
This year, he appeared to be taking another big step forward, averaging 29.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game, and was the first player this season to score 50 points in a game.
With Banchero likely out until at least December, the Magic will have to adapt. Franz Wagner is expected to step up as the primary scorer, Jonathan Isaac could join the starting lineup, and recent offseason additions will need to play bigger roles.