Magic Starting 5: Paolo Banchero OUT for FIBA World Cup?

1. NO PAOLO AT FIBA WORLD CUP?

“We are currently on stand-by, and if I’m being honest, I feel more pessimistic than optimistic. Banchero has been overwhelmed by events in recent months," federation president Gianni Petrucci said. "If he won’t be with us for the World Cup, we now hope for the Paris Olympics.”

2. GARY HARRIS EMBRACING LEADERSHIP ROLE

"When things get tough as a team we look inward," Harris said. "We look at ourselves, we look at how we can help each other out and how we can continue to keep pushing through.

"Staying the course and be present because there's gonna be ups and downs, highs and lows, but as long as you continue to just stick to your core principles, you're always gonna end up on the other side."

3. MAGIC 'SETTLED' WITH WCJ

"The Magic seem more settled any time Carter is on the floor, especially on defense," The Ringer writes. "He’s a stout interior defender who moves fluidly in tight spaces, with long arms and a solid frame that make him an enforcing rim protector in drop coverages or in help. Those same qualities make him a strong post defender too, and in recent years he’s played some of the best defense of anyone against the likes of Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid."

4. FRIDAY NIGHT'S GAMES

Boston Celtics vs. Philadelphia 76ers, 7:30 p.m. EST, ESPN (Series tied 1-1)

Denver Nuggets vs. Phoenix Suns, 10 p.m. EST, ESPN (Nuggets lead 2-0)

5. NBA DRAFT LOTTERY COUNTDOWN

The Magic is 11 days away from the NBA Draft Lottery, where it will be revealed if Orlando will have the opportunity to take Victor Wembanyama with the No. 1 overall pick.

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