Franz Wagner is getting close to rejoining the Orlando Magic, and the timing could not be more meaningful.
Wagner is targeting a return at the NBA Berlin Game on Thursday, which would double as a homecoming for the Germany native after a lengthy absence caused by a high ankle sprain.
The player has missed Orlando’s last 16 games while rehabbing the injury, but he said the last few weeks have been encouraging.
“I feel good. I’ve been working really hard the last couple of weeks to get back as soon as I can,” Wagner explained.
While he hopes that comeback happens in Berlin, he also emphasized that the moment carries weight beyond basketball.
“Hopefully that will be in Berlin,” Wagner said, before adding that the experience itself already feels special.
He described the game as a full-circle moment for both himself and his brother and teammate Moritz Wagner, recalling how they once sat in the stands of that same gym as kids watching professionals.
Now, they are part of bringing an NBA game to that very setting. The forward said the plan is to soak in the experience, enjoy it fully, and appreciate the opportunity regardless of whether he plays.
On the court, Orlando has managed to tread water without him, posting an 8–8 record during his absence. Wagner was injured on December 7 in a game against the New York Knicks, and his scoring punch has been noticeably missed.
Before the injury, he was in the midst of a standout season, averaging 22.7 points per game while shooting a career-best 49 percent from the field.
Franz Wagner Hopeful To Return To Lineup For NBA Berlin Game https://t.co/mXYyXbIxLN
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 12, 2026
