Amidst a challenging season plagued by injuries, the Orlando Magic is poised for a positive shift as they prepare for their upcoming game this Friday.

Star forward Paolo Banchero is set to make a significant comeback from his recent oblique injury, as reported by NBA insider Chris Haynes. This exciting news comes ahead of the Magic’s matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Banchero, just 22 years old, has been sidelined since October 30 due to a torn oblique muscle, which has kept him off the court for several weeks. His return is highly anticipated, as he brings a crucial athleticism and skillset back to the team.

“I feel really good and I’m excited to be back participating in practice and reconnecting with my teammates,” Banchero expressed during a press conference on Thursday, showcasing his eagerness to contribute to the team’s success once again.

On Wednesday, ESPN’s Shams Charania indicated that Banchero was likely to return for either the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves or the highly anticipated Friday matchup against the Bucks, which has fans buzzing with excitement.

After Thursday’s practice, Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley was approached by reporters seeking confirmation about Banchero’s availability for the game later that evening. He responded teasingly, “I’ll let you know tonight,” according to The Athletic‘s Joshua Robbins, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.

Before his injury, the 2022-23 rookie of the year had been enjoying an impressive start to the season, averaging 29 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game across his first five appearances, showcasing why he is such a key asset for the Magic.

Despite Banchero’s absence, the Orlando Magic have managed to maintain their competitive edge, even with the long-term injuries affecting other key players such as Franz Wagner (torn oblique) and Moe Wagner (torn ACL). Additionally, Gary Harris (hamstring) and Jalen Suggs (back strain) have also missed significant playing time, yet the team continues to push forward.

Remarkably, the Magic currently rank fourth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 22-16, demonstrating resilience and teamwork in the face of adversity. Fans are hopeful that Banchero’s return will bolster their playoff aspirations even further.