ORLANDO - A surprise to some might be Franz Wagner’s offense. He’s averaging 14.9 points, third most among rookies, on 49.5 percent shooting overall and 41.7 percent from 3-point range.
But as advertised, Wagner’s defense has been superb. Opponents are shooting 38.4 percent from the floor and 25 percent from 3-point range with the 6-foot-10 German forward as the closest defender. Fellow Magic rookie Jalen Suggs’ defensive numbers are just as impressive (39.6 percent overall and 29.2 percent from distance).
Wagner, one of the most versatile players selected in the 2021 NBA Draft, has guarded a variety of players in the early stages of his career.