Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner on Tuesday was named the NBA Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month to become just the eighth player in franchise history to win the award.
Magic guard Cole Anthony was happy to see Wagner earn some recognition after a sensational month. Wagner averaged 19.5 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists, posting the second-highest December scoring average in team history since Shaquille O’Neal (20.6 points).
Wagner leads all rookie players in offense and has scored in double figures in 21 consecutive games, the longest streak by a first-year player this season. He produced a rookie season-high of 38 points on Dec. 28 and leads the class with 10 20-point performances.
The recent surge by Wagner now has him in the early-season conversation for Rookie of the Year. The race had been dominated by the likes of Cade Cunningham, Jalen Green and Scottie Barnes, but Wagner has now seemingly entered the discussion.
Anthony spoke it into existence on Wednesday night.
Franz, that’s my little man right there. He works his tail off. He loves the game. He understands the game. He thinks the game at a high level. I’m really, really a fan of that kid. He is a good kid. He wants to see others succeed.
I’m just super, super happy he finally got a little bit of credit. I told him I’m going to start calling him ROY — Rookie of the Year. Because that is what he is going to be. I’m speaking it into existence. I just want to keep seeing him get better and I think he has a chance to be a heck of a player.
Wagner has emerged as perhaps the top two-way first-year player this season. With his vast offensive repertoire, and ability to defend nearly every position on the court, Wagner brings quite a bit of versatility to the floor and that is on display each game.
The early display by Wagner has certainly been one bright spot for the Magic (7-32) through the first half of the season. The team is rebuilding and the season will be mostly a developmental period, but Wagner has looked to have exceeded expectations early.
With Anthony and the Magic advocating on behalf of Wagner, and the eighth pick emerging as a potential star in Orlando, the Rookie of the Year talk should only continue as the season progresses.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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