All-Step Up Squad
Awards and questions after 2024-25's first month
Franz Wagner’s Teutonic diligence was displayed well before he stepped into a game-winning shot over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers.
It was apparent before he stepped up and into duty upon responsibility atop burden following Paolo Banchero’s injury. Wagner displayed the stuff so often, Orlando signed the 23-year old for over $224 million until 2030, in whatever the Magic think they are doing with those uniforms.
The Magic (10-7, tied for No. 3 in the East) kept rhythm despite Banchero’s absence, despite Wendell Carter Jr. (inflamed arch) only appearing in six games. Orlando maintained composure as top free agent lode Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (three-years, $66 million) took a baker’s dozen ballgames to ease his shooting percentage above 33. Coach Jamahl Mosley leads the league’s second-best defense, KCP shows up on that end and Jalen Suggs is a dream lead guard.
Vut Wagner, he’s the guy: