Orlando Magic vs Phoenix Suns injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 20, 2026)
Times of India
by RAUNAK BOSEFebruary 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Orlando Magic and Phoenix Suns clash at Footprint Center on Saturday, with both teams facing key absences and relying on their bench depth and team strengths to secure a win. The Magic enter the game with a 29-25 record, leading the Southeast Division, while the Suns sit at 32-24, holding second place in the Pacific Division and seventh in the Western Conference. However, both teams are missing crucial players: Orlando’s Paolo Banchero is out with an injury, and Phoenix’s Devin Booker is sidelined with a hip strain. These absences will test their respective lineups as they look to maintain momentum in the standings.
Orlando’s injury issues include Franz Wagner being sidelined with a high-ankle sprain and Jalen Suggs listed as questionable due to back spasms. This leaves the Magic reliant on role players like Wendell Carter Jr., Goga Bitadze, and Anthony Black to step up defensively and offensively. Phoenix, meanwhile, is without Haywood Highsmith due to knee management, forcing minutes onto Jordan Goodwin and Collin Gillespie. The Suns’ perimeter game will need to compensate for Booker’s absence, with Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks expected to carry the offensive load.
The Magic have an edge in rebounding and free-throw shooting, which could prove crucial in a close contest. Their ability to control the boards and exploit the charity stripe could offset Phoenix’s superior assist rate and three-point shooting. The Suns, known for their efficient ball movement, will need to maintain composure without Booker, relying on Grayson Allen’s potential return from an ankle sprain. Both teams’ performances will hinge on execution and resilience, with bench contributions likely determining the outcome.
This game matters for broader NBA standings, as a win could solidify Orlando’s position in the Eastern Conference or extend Phoenix’s playoff hopes. The matchup also highlights the importance of role players stepping up when stars are unavailable. With tight competition in both conferences, every game becomes an opportunity to strengthen a team’s playoff credentials.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/21/2026