MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – OCTOBER 07: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic brings the ball up court during the first half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on October 07, 2026 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
SOURCE: Justin Ford
A high ankle sprain could sideline Banchero for 4-to-6 weeks, which is potentially devastating news for the 0-2 Magic
ORLANDO, Fla. —
Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero sustained a low-grade high right ankle sprain and is expected to miss multiple weeks, sources told ESPN.
Banchero injured his ankle while pursuing a rebound early in the third quarter of Friday’s 115-93 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The 23-year-old forward briefly went to the locker room and returned, but the Magic shut him down in the fourth quarter.
Such injuries typically require four to six weeks of recovery, although the team has not announced a timetable for Banchero’s return. His absence is a significant setback for the Magic, who fell to 0-2 with Friday’s loss.
Orlando will visit the New York Knicks on Sunday. Tristan da Silva is a likely candidate to replace Banchero in the starting lineup.
Through two games this season, Banchero averaged 24.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 7.5 assists while shooting 69.6% from the field. He was tied for 18th in scoring, 59th in rebounding and ninth in assists entering Saturday.
Banchero signed a five-year, $239.2 million designated rookie maximum extension with Orlando in July 2025. The contract began with the 2026-27 season and runs through 2030-31, with a player option for the final season.