Franz Wagner on Wendell Carter Jr.: 'I think he’s our anchor for our defense when he’s out there'

James Plowright: Steve Clifford mentions that the Magic play more “Five out” with Bitadze and Wagner playing instead of Wendell Carter. That creates a lot of challenges guarding actions on the perimeter and creates driving lanes for Banchero/Wagner -via Twitter @British_Buzz / November 26, 2023

Harrison Wind: Out for the Magic tonight vs. Nuggets: Wendell Carter (hand), Markelle Fultz (knee), Kevon Harris (coach’s decision) -via Twitter @HarrisonWind / November 22, 2023

Jason Beede: NEWS: #Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. will undergo surgery to to repair a fractured third metacarpal in his left hand, I’m told. Following surgery, Carter Jr. will be re-evaluated in approximately three weeks and his status will be updated as appropriate. -via Twitter @therealBeede / November 4, 2023

After winning the FIBA World Cup, what can you say about Germany’s basketball future? Franz Wagner: I think success like that with the national team sparks a lot of excitement back home, and more kids will start playing basketball at home. I think that’s one of the coolest things about being part of the national team. We’re inspiring the next generation, and hopefully, in 10-15 years, we’ll have a lot more German players, not just in the NBA but in the best leagues around the world. I don’t think people from the United States realize how big a thing that was for us to win the World Cup. When I grew up, that was not an option. That was not something that you dreamed of because it was that crazy. So, honestly, I still haven’t really realized exactly what we did. -via HoopsHype / December 5, 2023

Are you surprised by how well the team is playing? Franz Wagner: I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m surprised because I think we’re building on what we did last year. We had a rough start last year to the season with a lot of injuries, and in the last 60 games, we played pretty good basketball. I think that’s one of the main things that’s changed this year. Our belief in our group and the whole organization. When we walk into the building, we believe that we can win that night. That’s been our mindset. I think that’s the biggest change from last year, the change in our mentality and approach every night. -via HoopsHype / December 5, 2023

Cole Anthony has provided a spark off the bench. Where is he in the Sixth Man of the Year conversation? Franz Wagner: I think Cole is doing a great job this year of leading our second group. It’s probably one of the best in the NBA right now. Cole is a huge part of that for us, and it’s really important for us. A lot of times, our second unit is getting us leads and playing ahead. Cole can get a bucket whenever he wants, but I think Cole’s been really impressive for me in terms of how he’s making other people better, making plays for others, and controlling the whole pace of the game. I think Cole is definitely very deserving (of Sixth Man of the Year). I think our record speaks obviously for him, and I think it’s probably his stats as well. I’m not sure what voters are looking at for all of that, but all I could say is I’m super happy to play with him. -via HoopsHype / December 5, 2023