The Orlando Magic visit the Houston Rockets on Sunday, November 16, at 7:00 PM ET at Toyota Center, with both teams navigating significant injury issues. Orlando enters the game at 7-6, while the Rockets hold an 8-3 record.
Orlando will be without Paolo Banchero (left groin strain) and Moritz Wagner (left knee injury recovery). Colin Castleton is unavailable as a two-way player in the G League. Franz Wagner is expected to play in a protective face mask, limiting potential contact on the court.
Houston’s backcourt and forward rotation is also affected. Fred VanVleet (right knee ACL repair), Tari Eason (right oblique strain), and Dorian Finney-Smith (left ankle surgery) are out. Isaiah Crawford and Kevon Harris remain in the G League and are unavailable for the main roster.
Paolo Banchero leads the Magic with 22.7 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, while Franz Wagner contributes 21.7 points and 8.7 rebounds. With Banchero sidelined, Wagner’s presence becomes critical, alongside Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs for scoring and playmaking.
For the Rockets, Kevin Durant averages 25.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game. Alperen Sengun adds 22.4 points and 10.2 rebounds, while Amen Thompson contributes 17.7 points and 5.5 assists.
The Magic are 3-3 on the road this season, while Houston has been strong at home with a 4-1 record. Orlando has won five of their last seven games, whereas the Rockets have won six of their last seven contests, including three straight at Toyota Center.
