Magic's Wendell Carter Cleared to Play Thursday

Veteran center returns from ankle injury for matchup with Mavericks

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter has been cleared to play in Thursday's game against the Dallas Mavericks after missing the team's previous contest due to right ankle soreness. Carter has been a key contributor for the Magic since the All-Star break, averaging 10.7 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game over 31.3 minutes per contest.

Why it matters

Carter's return is important for the Magic as they look to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race. The 24-year-old center has been a consistent double-double threat and valuable two-way player for Orlando this season.

The details

Carter did not play in the Magic's 126-109 win over the Washington Wizards on Tuesday due to the ankle issue. His return to the lineup on Thursday will likely bump Goga Bitadze out of the starting center role.

  • Carter is available for Thursday's game against the Mavericks.

The players

Wendell Carter

A 24-year-old center for the Orlando Magic who has been a key contributor for the team since the All-Star break.

Goga Bitadze

A center for the Orlando Magic who had been starting in Carter's absence due to the ankle injury.

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The takeaway

Carter's return is a boost for the Magic as they look to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference playoff race. The veteran center has been a consistent double-double threat and valuable two-way player for Orlando this season.