The Orlando Magic's well-documented injury woes should be eased in a big way on Friday when the team is expected to get All-Star Paolo Banchero back from a 34-game absence in time for a home meeting with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Banchero (oblique) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Timberwolves. Banchero is nearing his return to the floor for the Magic, but it won't happen Thursday against the Timberwolves. The rising star has missed all but five games this season for Orlando and could finally make it back Friday in the second game of a back-to-back against the Bucks.