Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero (oblique) will make his return Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks after being sidelined for over two months. #haynesbriefsSource: Twitter

Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo had high praise for Paolo Banchero and the Magic after Friday’s game at Kia Center. “Orlando is a dangerous team,” the two-time NBA MVP said.

Following a 34-game absence due to a torn right abdominal muscle, Paolo Banchero returned to the Kia Center court Friday against the Bucks.

The Bucks lead by six. Milwaukee scores on its next offensive possession, but Banchero responds with his fourth three and the score is 100-95. Paolo has 25 points. 9:05 p.m.: Banchero forces a crucial miss from Antetokounmpo. Anthony sends Banchero to ...

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) reacts after making shot against the Milwaukee Bucks during the ...

Banchero has missed the Magic's last 33 games, and he will reportedly miss a 34th on when they host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday. On the official injury report, he is still listed as "questionable" for that game, as of Thursday afternoon.

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero is set to return tonight after an oblique injury, boosting the team as they face the Bucks. Despite key player absences, including Mo and Franz Wagner, the Magic have stayed competitive.

Magic star Paolo Banchero is expected to return to action in one of Orlando’s back-to-back home games Thursday versus Minnesota or Friday versus Milwaukee, sources tell ESPN. Banchero has been out since Oct. 30 due to a torn oblique after a monster start to the season. pic.twitter.com/f1qVhtJo4G

Orlando Magic star forward Paolo Banchero is expected to be available for Friday's home game against the Milwaukee Bucks. The All-Star

Having Banchero back in the mix gives the Magic offense a whole new set of weapons. And if he’s able to return to the form he evidenced in the early stages of the 2024-25 campaign, then he should be able to keep the Magic as one of the best teams in the East as the regular season rapidly approaches its mid-point.

Magic star Paolo Banchero is set to make his return from an oblique injury at the end of the week against either the Timberwolves or Bucks.

No. 5 is back on the floor. Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) reacts after a play against the Milwaukee Bucks in the fourth quarter at Kia Center. / Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images 7:15 p.m ...