Story perspectives

Franz Wagner Set for Oct. 21 Opener After Rehab

By Drooid · Oct 20, 2026, 11:33 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Orlando Magic will open the 2026-27 NBA season at home against the Atlanta Hawks on Oct. 21.
Star forward Franz Wagner says he will play after completing practice, though his shoulder remains under evaluation.
Forward Noah Penda suffered a partially torn right hamstring and is expected to miss a significant period.
If Wagner misses the opener, third-year forward Tristan da Silva would likely start, having averaged 16.5 points in preseason.

History

Historical Context

In July 1995 the NBA began its first three-month lockout after the collective bargaining agreement expired, halting trades, free-agent signings and summer leagues until a new CBA was signed on September 12. The dispute pushed the 1995-96 season’s start until later that year, the league’s 50th season, and coincided with the Raptors and Grizzlies debuts. The Magic’s 2026-27 opener now faces similar injury-driven lineup uncertainty.

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Story summary

Orlando Magic will open the 2026-27 NBA season at home against the Atlanta Hawks on Oct. 21.
Star forward Franz Wagner says he will play after completing practice, though his shoulder remains under evaluation.
Forward Noah Penda suffered a partially torn right hamstring and is expected to miss a significant period.
If Wagner misses the opener, third-year forward Tristan da Silva would likely start, having averaged 16.5 points in preseason.

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