UPDATE 9:48 p.m. ET: Well, that escalated quickly. Banchero played 37 minutes on Wednesday and was listed as questionable for Friday’s game. Unfortunately, ESPN’s Shams Charania dropped a bombshell late on Halloween night, reporting that Banchero tore his right oblique and will be sidelined indefinitely.
Banchero had leveled up this season and was garnering a 31.4% usage rate on the season. Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner had a usage rate around 25% with Banchero. Expect both to take on more offensive responsibility now.
Banchero has been one of the best players in the NBA so far this season, averaging a career-high 29 PPG, including a 50-point outburst vs. the Pacers. However, the forward has suffered an abdominal strain and is questionable to play Friday vs. the Cavaliers.
Franz Wagner (illness) is also questionable. If Banchero or Wagner sit, Orlando will be a terrific source of value for DFS, with Jalen Suggs being a name to consider.
The Magic haven’t played a game with both Banchero and Wagner inactive the last two seasons, but with the two players off the court during that time, Suggs has handled a 21% usage rate. While his player props have yet to be released on the DraftKings Sportsbook, overs on Suggs’ points props will be something to consider if Banchero sits Friday.
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