Magic Defeat Bucks in Decisive Home Victory

Orlando's Franz Wagner returns from injury to lead team to third straight win

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Orlando Magic defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 118-99 in a decisive home victory on Wednesday night. The Magic, led by the return of star forward Franz Wagner, extended their winning streak to three games and gained ground in the Eastern Conference standings heading into the All-Star break. Milwaukee struggled without the injured Giannis Antetokounmpo, dropping to 21-30 on the season.

Why it matters

This game highlighted the Magic's depth and resilience, as they were able to win convincingly despite Antetokounmpo's absence for the Bucks. Orlando's strong play at home could be a sign of things to come as they look to solidify their position in the playoff race, while Milwaukee's struggles without their superstar raise questions about the team's ability to compete at a high level.

The details

The Magic were led by the return of Franz Wagner, who scored 14 points in 17 minutes of action after missing time due to injury. Paolo Banchero added 21 points, while Desmond Bane and Anthony Black also scored in double figures. The Bucks were unable to overcome Antetokounmpo's absence, as their offense struggled without their star player. Kevin Porter Jr. and Bobby Portis led Milwaukee with 17.5 and 13.3 points per game, respectively.

  • The Magic hosted the Bucks on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 7 p.m. EST.
  • Franz Wagner returned to the Magic lineup on Monday, February 9, 2026 after a long absence due to injury.

The players

Franz Wagner

A star forward for the Orlando Magic who returned from injury to help lead his team to victory.

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The injured superstar of the Milwaukee Bucks, whose absence was a major factor in his team's loss.

Paolo Banchero

A key contributor for the Magic, scoring 21 points in the win.

Kevin Porter Jr.

A guard for the Bucks who led his team in scoring with 17.5 points per game.

Bobby Portis

A frontcourt player for the Bucks who added 13.3 points per game in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“Franz's return was a huge boost for us tonight. He brings so much energy and playmaking to our team.”

— Paolo Banchero, Forward, Orlando Magic (ESPN)

“We just couldn't get it going without Giannis. He's such a huge part of what we do, and it showed tonight.”

— Kevin Porter Jr., Guard, Milwaukee Bucks (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

What’s next

The Magic will look to extend their winning streak when they host the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday, February 13, 2026. The Bucks will try to bounce back when they visit the Toronto Raptors on the same night.

The takeaway

This game demonstrated the importance of star power in the NBA, as the Magic were able to capitalize on the Bucks' struggles without Antetokounmpo. Orlando's depth and resilience, highlighted by Wagner's return, could make them a team to watch in the Eastern Conference playoff race down the stretch.