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Banchero out multiple weeks; Flagg has mild shoulder sprain

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The Orlando Magic are expected to be without All-Star forward Paolo Banchero for multiple weeks due to a sprained ankle, multiple media outlets reported on Saturday.

While the team has not publicly announced a timetable for Banchero’s return, he could miss four to six weeks, according to reporting by ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Banchero sustained the injury in the first half of the Magic’s 115-93 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.

Banchero told the Orlando Sentinel that he was experiencing discomfort as early as the first quarter, but he remained in the game through the end of the third.

Injuries have plagued the Magic in recent seasons, with Banchero, Franz Wagner, Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs all missing considerable time. Over the last two seasons, Banchero has missed a total of 46 games.

A former No. 1 overall pick, Banchero is averaging 24.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 7.5 assists in two games this season.

The news was better for Dallas Mavericks star Cooper Flagg, who is not expected to miss a significant amount of time with a mild left shoulder sprain.

Flagg, the reigning NBA Rookie of the Year, was injured on a hard foul in Friday's 121-105 win over the Indiana Pacers. 

He will be re-evaluated next week and will not play Saturday against the San Antonio Spurs.