The Brooklyn Nets are gearing up to face the Orlando Magic on Friday night, seeking their second victory of the season. Currently, the Nets hold a disappointing 1-10 record, making them one of the weakest teams in the league alongside the Pacers and Wizards, who are both at 1-11. Expectations were tempered for Brooklyn this season, as they continue a rebuilding phase aimed at securing the top pick for the 2026 draft. Despite the struggles, head coach Jordi Fernandez, along with the front office, is keen on player development, noting positive growth from rookie Egor Demin, who scored a total of 26 points in the last two games.
Injury Reports Impacting the Matchup
Both teams are dealing with significant injuries that could influence the outcome of the game. Here’s a detailed look at the injury report for the Brooklyn Nets and Orlando Magic:
Brooklyn Nets Injuries
- Haywood Highsmith — Out: Right knee
- Ben Saraf — Out: G League
- Day’Ron Sharpe — Available
- Cam Thomas — Out: Left hamstring
- Nolan Traore — Out: G League
- Danny Wolf — Out: G League
Orlando Magic Injuries
- Paolo Banchero — Out: Left groin strain
- Colin Castleton — Out: G League
- Orlando Robinson — Out: G League
- Franz Wagner — Available
- Moritz Wagner — Out: Left knee
The Nets will be missing Cam Thomas, their second-leading scorer, due to a left hamstring injury. His absence has been felt alongside star Michael Porter Jr., as the team struggles to maintain offensive pressure. Haywood Highsmith, acquired from the Miami Heat during the offseason, has yet to take the court for Brooklyn. They will also be without rookies Ben Saraf, Nolan Traore, and Danny Wolf, who are currently on G League assignments.
On the flip side, the Magic face a critical loss with star player Paolo Banchero expected to miss the game due to a left groin strain he sustained during a recent match against the Knicks. Banchero has been a key contributor for Orlando, averaging 21.7 points per game. However, Franz Wagner, who leads the team with an average of 22.5 points per game, is listed as available and may step up in Banchero’s absence.
Game Details
Tonight’s matchup between the Nets and Magic is set to tip off at 6 p.m. CT at the Kia Center in Orlando, FL. Both teams are looking for a much-needed win as they navigate their early-season struggles.
