The Orlando Magic are looking to end their All-Star drought, and we rank the players most likely to earn a nod in the 2026-27 campaign. The team enters the season with a new defensive-minded coach in Sean Sweeney, aiming to build on a core that won 43 games last year despite injuries. Their recent form shows a 2W-3L record in their last five, including a 116-94 loss to the Detroit Pistons on May 3, 2026.
Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner are the clear frontrunners. Banchero was the team's last All-Star in the 2023-24 season. For him to reclaim that status, he must become a more efficient jump shooter. Last season's shooting struggles were a clear issue. Coach Sweeney's challenge is to unlock Banchero's full potential as a creator on the offensive end.
Franz Wagner was on a clear All-Star trajectory last year before ankle injuries derailed his season. He averaged 24.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists the season prior. Wagner remains one of the team's best slashers, playmakers, and defenders. His health and continued development as a spot-up threat are key for his candidacy and the Magic's playoff hopes.
Desmond Bane provides vital consistency. Acquired in a major trade, the sixth-year guard was Orlando's best shooter and a top slasher last season. He started all 82 games. While his chemistry with Wagner and Banchero is still developing, his impact was undeniable. The Magic's offense would have struggled much more without his scoring punch.
Anthony Black is the wild card. He made a huge leap last year and is still just 22. His dynamic shot creation is a major asset. However, his path is tougher if he begins the season coming off the bench, as reserve players rarely make the All-Star team. Entering a contract year, Black has every motivation to take another significant step forward.
The Magic are banking on internal growth after a quiet offseason. Their biggest change was hiring Sean Sweeney to replace Jamahl Mosley as head coach. The team's recent results against the Detroit Pistons highlight their inconsistency. After winning games on April 25 (113-105) and April 28 (94-88), they lost the next three, including the 116-94 defeat to end their season.
Only three Magic players have been All-Stars since 2012. Breaking that streak requires team success. If Orlando can compete near the top of the Eastern Conference, individual recognition will follow. The pieces are there with Banchero, Wagner, Bane, and Black. Now it's about execution, health, and Sweeney's system putting them in the best position to shine. Check the team's upcoming challenges on our schedule page.
