Now this is what you call a contract. The man is one of the highest paid players in history.
Franz Wagner has secured his future with the Orlando Magic by agreeing to a significant five-year, $224 million contract extension, potentially increasing to $269 million with certain achievements. This deal marks him as one of the premier talents in the NBA, especially impressive for a player who is just concluding his rookie contract.
Last season, Wagner demonstrated his worth by averaging 19.7 points per game, only second to his teammate Paolo Banchero, and contributed significantly with 5.3 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. His performance not only highlights his scoring ability but also his versatility on the court.
Jazz Have ‘No Motivation’ to Trade Lauri Markkanen per Insider via @pbyrnesNBA https://t.co/3StQhTGQk1
— Inside The Jazz (@InsideTheJazz) July 6, 2024
Throughout his three seasons with the Magic, Wagner has shown remarkable durability and consistency, missing only 15 games and accumulating over 7,000 playing minutes. Last season, he managed to average 32 minutes per game, solidifying his role as a key player for Orlando.
Selected eighth overall in the 2021 draft, Wagner quickly became an essential part of the Magic’s lineup and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 2022. His initial performance in the league showcased his scoring prowess and adaptability, making him one of the standout newcomers of his draft class.
Jazz insider Tony Jones @Tjonesonthenba of @TheAthletic told Bay Area Station @957thegame that the #Jazz don’t want to trade Lauri Markkanen. Jazz are the only ones who know what the trade offers actually look like. “You can get a trade in the next 24-48 hours.. Or you may not… pic.twitter.com/IVFgPVCKxU
— SpursReport (@SpursReporter) July 6, 2024
Adding to the familial storyline, Wagner plays alongside his brother, Mo Wagner, making them one of the rare sets of siblings in the NBA to play for the same team. This unique situation places them in the company of other sibling pairs such as Giannis and Thanasis Antetokounmpo, and Brook and Robin Lopez, who all play for the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Wagner brothers not only share the court at the professional level but also represented Germany internationally. Last summer, they led Germany to a gold medal at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, with Franz earning All-Tournament Second Team honors. Their teamwork and synergy on the court were pivotal to Germany’s success, and they are anticipated to represent their country again at the upcoming Olympics in Paris.
Report: Warriors presented ‘substantial’ Markkanen trade offer to Jazz https://t.co/PDhrxeOZst
— Kamal Mustafa ✪ (@MeKamalMustafa) July 6, 2024
This contract extension is a testament to Franz Wagner’s impact and potential, ensuring he remains a cornerstone for the Orlando Magic as they build towards becoming a formidable force in the NBA. With his commitment secured, Wagner is set to continue his ascent as one of the league’s most promising young talents.
Key Points:
i. Significant Contract Extension: Franz Wagner has signed a five-year, $224 million contract extension with the Orlando Magic, which could rise to $269 million if certain conditions are met.
ii. Impressive Performance: Wagner averaged 19.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game last season, establishing himself as a key player for the Magic.
iii. Consistent Availability: Over his three seasons with Orlando, Wagner has been notably durable, missing only 15 games and accumulating over 7,000 minutes of playtime.
iv. Family Dynamics: Franz plays alongside his brother, Mo Wagner, making them one of only three sets of brothers in the NBA who play for the same team.
v. International Success: The Wagner brothers contributed significantly to Germany’s gold medal win at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, and Franz received All-Tournament Second Team honors. They are expected to compete for Germany in the upcoming Paris Olympics.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
