Orlando Magic: 4 key players off to a hot start this season

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 29: Cole Anthony #50 of the Orlando Magic holds Jalen Suggs #4 during the second half of their NBA game against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on October 29, 2021 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) /

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Franz Wagner #22 of the Orlando Magic reacts the New York Knicks (Photo by Steven Ryan/Getty Images) /

Key players off to a hot start for the Orlando Magic this season: 3. Franz Wagner

It’s been a rookie season to remember for Franz Wagner so far. Not only does he get to play alongside his brother, but he’s already popping off and proving to be a real long-term factor for this franchise.

Through the first 12 games of his career, Wagner is averaging 13.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. As expected, he’s quickly shown to be adept from three-point range, hitting 36.2 percent of his attempts.

A hidden asset of Wagner’s game is his ability to protect the ball, not always an easy thing for a rookie. Wagner was averaging 0.8 turnovers per game prior to Wednesday, which results in a 6.3 turnover percentage that ranked 15th in the NBA.

Wagner also appears to be a big believer in the idea that a long-range two-pointer is a bad shot. Through 12 games, Wagner hasn’t hit a single field goal from 16-to-30 feet. He probably could, but he hasn’t even attempted one.

For what it’s worth, Moritz Wagner – Franz’s brother – is averaging 4.7 points in 11.0 minutes per contest off the bench. Bragging rights currently reside with the younger brother.

Soon, Franz Wagner may provide the Orlando Magic with bragging rights about the best young roster in the Eastern Conference, so long as a rookie wall doesn’t hit him.

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