Jase

Richardson

Sunday’s game is Orlando’s first since losing Paolo Banchero to a low-grade right ankle sprain during Friday’s loss to the Timberwolves. The Magic will go small on Sunday, with Richardson’s inclusion in the lineup meaning that Bane and Wagner will shift down a position.

A final decision has not been made, but Richardson could be the addition to the starting lineup after Orlando lost Paolo Banchero (ankle) during Friday’s loss to the Timberwolves. If he starts, Desmond Bane and Franz Wagner would shift to small forward and power forward, respectively.

Richardson exited early from Friday’s preseason game with a back injury, but that won’t keep him from suiting up in the season opener. Anthony Black (ankle) has been ruled out, so Richardson may take on a few extra minutes off the bench in the backcourt.

Richardson played seven minutes in the first half of Friday’s preseason finale before being shut down with a sore lower back. Orlando has a few days before its regular-season opener; hopefully, that’s enough time for the second-year guard to return to full strength. With Anthony Black still recovering from a sprained ankle, Richardson may get to play a few more minutes early in the season.

Orlando did not play Jalen Suggs or Anthony Black on Sunday, so Richardson started. After a rookie season averaging just 10.9 minutes per game, Richardson’s outlook in redraft leagues isn’t particularly good, especially with Suggs and Black healthy. However, he’s still worth rostering in dynasty leagues.

After a solid 15-point effort in his first action of the summer on Thursday, Richardson was even better on Saturday. In addition to shooting the ball well on all three levels, he did not commit a turnover and led the Magic in assists. Richardson didn’t get to play much last season, and a good run in Las Vegas is the first step toward ensuring that he’s in Orlando’s plans for 2026-27. At this rate, the Magic may decide that they’ve seen enough from the guard to shut him down for the remainder of summer league.

Richardson didn’t play a ton as a rookie, but he’s an incredibly talented player. He should see his role increase in year two, though it likely won’t be large enough for him to hold any fantasy relevance. He was productive during his two summer league performances last year as well, and he may not see many more appearances in Las Vegas.

Richardson will be back after missing Sunday’s game, but that won’t alter Orlando’s rotation. He’ll be a depth piece, but he won’t play enough to make much of an impact in the box score.

Richardson did not play in Sunday’s win over the Bucks. His availability does not affect fantasy basketball, even with Anthony Black (back) ruled out for Wednesday’s game.

Richardson’s absence does not affect fantasy basketball, but there have been a few more minutes available to Jett Howard.