As crazy as it may be, the Orlando Magic are in third place in the Eastern Conference. It’s crazy considering they’re the only legitimate superstarPaolo Bancheromissed a lot of time. However, others have made timely and massive gains, including Franz Wagnerwhose impact has not gone unnoticed. Magic teammate Kentavious Caldwell Pope recently exaggerated his German colleague raves about his game and his offensive firepower.

Magical vet Kentavious Caldwell-Pope raves about a “monster”

Kentavious Caldwell-Pope calls Magic running mate Franz Wagner a “monster”

On his podcast Dawg talkKCP raved about Wagner and how he has stepped up for the Magic in place of Banchero, who suffered an injury a few weeks ago. In fact, it wasn’t just Wagner who made an impression, but also the entire Magic team. What’s notable is that Orlando has more than managed to stay afloat in Banchero’s absence. They have compiled a solid record of 16-8 and are behind Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers for third place in the East. Again, this is all without their all-star and franchise player Banchero.

Others have made significant progress, leading to the Magic taking their spot in the standings. One of the so-called “others” is Wagner, one half of Orlando’s German brother duo. Moritz Wagner be the second half. Franz quickly makes a name for himself, and rightly so. His latest evidence of his budding fame was a 35-point performance earlier this week against the Philadelphia 76ers. KCP used his podcast to praise Wagner’s piece, calling him his “buddy of the week.” (32.20 marks)

“…this man really stepped up for us, shot the ball, was the floor general on the court, put everyone in position, averaging 27 and six, which are damn All-Star numbers.” He will be an All-Star this year. He was the dog for us and held the team, all of us, together. He was outstanding for what he did and the numbers he put up. In the last 13 games I think he’s only scored 14 points in one of those games once…he’s been a monster. He’s going crazy.”

Franz’s piece speaks to Orlando’s depth

What does this tell us about magic in light of Wagner’s impact? It is said that this team is deep and goes far beyond Banchero. This is no disrespect to his name either. The man truly is a superstar – elite, elite, elite. KCP even mentioned that the success Orlando is achieving is achieved without its best player. If a former NBA champion recognizes this, we outsiders should recognize it too. Wagner’s appearance also comes at the perfect time. He has never put up offensive numbers like this in his four years in the league, all in Orlando. In Banchero’s absence, it’s not just Wagner who appears. Jalen suggests also plays great ball, as does Franz’s brother Mo, Anthony Black, Jonathan Isaacand of course KCP, who brings experienced leadership and championship pedigree to the locker room.

Obviously, the magic is not to be taken lightly, whether Banchero is present or not. This team looks poised to expand on last season’s playoff spot, and it’s already looking much better than last year, which is scary. More good news: Banchero recently returned to the court and is on his way back to the court. Until then, it’s up to Franz’s team to carry it.