Paolo Banchero out indefinitely with Torn Oblique; Magic PF suffered damage vs. Bulls | News, results, highlights, stats and rumours

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CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 30: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic shoots a free throw during the game against the Chicago Bulls on October 30, 2024 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTICE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and or using this photograph, User consents to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE (Photo by Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images)

Kamil Krzaczynski/NBAE via Getty Images

After an excellent start to his third NBA campaign, Orlando Magic star Paolo Banchero will miss some time.

The Magic announced Thursday that Banchero will be sidelined indefinitely with a torn right oblique. He will be reevaluated in four to six weeks and return to court based on how he progresses in his treatment.

Orlando Magic PR @Magic_PR

PRESS RELEASE:@OrlandoMagic forward Paolo Banchero diagnosed with torn right oblique
– Banchero will be out indefinitely and his return to action will depend on how he responds to treatment.
– Banchero will be reassessed in four to six weeks#MakeItMagic pic.twitter.com/T6R1Bs13YR

In his first game of the season, Banchero dropped 33 points and 11 boards in a win over the Miami Heat. A week later, he had 50 points, 13 rebounds and nine assists against the Indiana Pacers, becoming the second youngest player to have at least 50 points, 10 rebounds and five assists behind only LeBron James.

He had 31 points and seven rebounds Wednesday in a loss to the Chicago Bulls.

Last season, Banchero put up 22.6 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game, leading the Magic to a 47-35 record. It was Orlando’s best season since 2011, when it won 52 games with Dwight Howard leading the way.

The Magic reached the playoffs for the first time since 2020 and just the third time in the last 12 years last season. Orlando fell just short of advancing to the second round when it lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers in seven games.

So far this season, the Magic are 3-2 and have a matchup against the Cavs on Friday. With its star out, Orlando will need players like Franz Wagner, Jalen Suggs and others to step up.

Banchero, who is averaging 29 points, 8.8 rebounds and 5.6 assists through five games, looks to make another big leap during the 2024-25 season, but unfortunately will have to put his year on hold break as he retrains after the injury.