Franz Wagner returns after 20-game absence in loss to Blazers

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner recorded 20 points and four rebounds in his team's 101-79 defeat to the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday after missing the last 20 games due to a torn right oblique.

Wagner was limited to 24 minutes of action. He hasn't played since suffering the injury in a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Dec. 6.

The 23-year-old was enjoying a breakout season before being sidelined, averaging a career-high 24.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 1.7 steals in 25 games.

"Pieces are getting back together," Mosley said Thursday, according to team reporter Kendra Douglas. "Having him back is going to be big."

Forward Jett Howard also returned against the Blazers after missing the last five games with a sprained left ankle.

Orlando lost Paolo Banchero to a torn oblique earlier this season, but he returned to the lineup Jan. 10.

The Magic are 23-23 after the defeat.