Blue Devil Country

Duke Basketball: One Magic Blue Devil Returns From Injury

Even without its two Duke basketball talents at full strength, Orlando is one of the hottest teams in the NBA.

Matt Giles

Former Duke basketball players Wendell Carter Jr. and Paolo Banchero
Former Duke basketball players Wendell Carter Jr. and Paolo Banchero / Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
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After missing 12 games due to left foot plantar fasciitis, 2017-18 Duke basketball one-and-done Wendell Carter Jr. resurfaced in the Orlando Magic starting frontcourt on Wednesday night. However, the 25-year-old big man, a former lottery pick, is on a minutes restriction for the time being.

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Carter played 18 minutes in the Magic's 133-119 home win over the Chicago Bulls. He finished with four points, four rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one block, shooting 2-for-5 from the field and 0-for-3 beyond the arc.

Prior to his injury, Carter saw action in six games. At the time, the Georgia native — a double-digit scorer in each of his first six years in the league — was averaging 8.3 points and 8.8 boards per contest.

As for the Magic's other frontcourt starter out of the Duke basketball program, former NBA Rookie of the Year and reigning first-time All-Star Paolo Banchero remains out of commission while recovering from a torn right oblique he sustained in late October. Through his five appearances this season, the 22-year-old sensation is averaging a whopping 29.0 points and 8.8 boards.

Banchero recently noted that he hopes to be back in action before Christmas.

Despite its NBA Blue Devils' extended absences, Orlando (13-7) has now reeled off wins in 10 of its past 11 outings.

ALSO READ: Insane Late-Game Spins Ruin Duke's Chances to Win

Stay tuned to Duke Blue Devils On SI for more Duke basketball news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of Duke Blue Devils on SI, North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining SI in 2022, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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