The Orlando Sentinel reported that Anthony Black is no longer listed for tonight's game in Toronto, while Banchero and Suggs head a sidelined group that also includes Isaac, Penda and Nelson. The 2-1 Raptors will be without Kawhi Leonard and Nate Bittle, which makes this a fair test of how much Franz Wagner can carry.
Black gives Sweeney a lead guard again.
Black made his season debut at New York and is cleared for Wednesday, according to the Sentinel and Rookie Wire. Banchero and Suggs are both out, so Black and Jase Richardson have to organize possessions. Black's next step is running the offense well enough that every trip doesn't end in Wagner's hands.
Wagner is carrying the creation but not the shooting.
Wagner is averaging 21.0 points and 6.3 assists, and Orlando Magic Daily called his fourth quarter at New York proof he can be an All-Star. The problem is 17.6 percent from three. Desmond Bane, at 28.6 percent, has not made up for it. An offense rated 106.5 needs one of them to start making outside shots.
Toronto plays fast and is missing its best scorer.
The Raptors are 2-1 with a 105.5 pace and a 97.8 defensive rating, against Orlando's 103.5 pace. Rookie Wire reported that Leonard is out with left knee swelling and Bittle with a right foot avulsion fracture. That leaves RJ Barrett at 21.0 points and Scottie Barnes at 17.0 as the main assignments. The teams meet again Friday in an Emirates NBA Cup game, then Orlando hosts Boston on November 1 and Washington on November 2.
Isaac's target date lands on the second Toronto game.
Isaac's estimated return is October 30, the night of the rematch. His left knee status has flipped back and forth since October 20, so the open question is whether he plays Friday or the date slips again.
Is Anthony Black playing tonight against the Raptors?
The Orlando Sentinel reported that Black is no longer listed for Wednesday's game in Toronto, following his season debut at New York.
When could Jonathan Isaac return for the Magic?
Isaac's estimated return is October 30, when Orlando plays at Toronto again. His left knee status has changed several times since October 20.
