Blue Devil Country

Duke basketball product likely out at least another week for Magic

Former Duke basketball gem Paolo Banchero might not play again in November.

Matt Giles

Duke basketball product likely out at least another week for Magic
Duke basketball product likely out at least another week for Magic /
In this story:

Paolo Banchero has missed six straight games for the Orlando Magic (5-12). And the 2021-22 Duke basketball sensation, who went No. 1 overall at the 2022 NBA Draft and has more than lived up to the hype, will likely miss a handful more outings as he recovers from a sprained left ankle.

RELATED: Stacking up all 26 Duke one-and-dones in history

He sustained the injury on Nov. 7 during the Magic's 134-127 home loss to the Houston Rockets.

On Thursday, the Orlando Sentinel's Khobi Price tweeted that Banchero expects to be out of commission for at least another week to a week and a half. Orlando plays five games in the next 11 days, beginning with a road bout against the Indiana Pacers at 7 p.m. ET Monday.

Injuries are always unfortunate. But it's safe to say Banchero has already proven himself as an NBA star in only 11 career outings. Still, if not for the setback, there's no telling the production level he would be enjoying; after all, his most recent game, despite the injury, marked his second straight with 30 points or more.

The 6-foot-10, 250-pound power forward from Seattle has put up numbers almost unheard of for a guy who is probably five years or more from reaching his prime. He's started every game when healthy and is averaging 23.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while shooting 46.1 percent from the field.

Furthermore, it's worth noting Paolo Banchero has never scored fewer than 15 points in an NBA game.

Orlando's other Duke basketball product, starting center Wendell Carter Jr., has missed two of the Magic's past three games while dealing with a right plantar fascia strain.

RELATED: List of every Blue Devil currently in the NBA

Stay tuned to Blue Devil Country for daily Duke basketball content.

Published
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.

Home/NBA Blue Devils