Is Paolo Banchero playing tonight against Timberwolves? Latest on Magic star's availability as comeback looms (Jan. 9)

Paolo Banchero is nearing his highly-anticipated return as the Orlando Magic prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday. The Magic are set to play on back-to-back nights, starting with the Timberwolves and followed by a matchup against their Eastern Conference rivals Milwaukee Bucks.

Banchero is expected to make his long-awaited comeback in one of these two games. NBA insider Shams Charania reported on Wednesday that the Magic’s star forward is likely to return during Orlando’s upcoming back-to-back contests, both of which will be played at the Kia Center.

"Magic star Paolo Banchero is expected to return to action in one of Orlando’s back-to-back home games Thursday versus Minnesota or Friday versus Milwaukee, sources tell ESPN," Shams tweeted.

Paolo Banchero, a one-time All-Star, provided an exciting update on his anticipated return on Tuesday. The rising star took to Instagram to share a post, writing:

"A look at how my season been going, The wait is almost over," Banchero wrote.

The young forward has been sidelined since Oct. 30 of last year after suffering a torn right oblique, forcing him to miss 33 consecutive games due to the significant injury.

As his return approaches, Banchero’s teammates are eager to have him back on the court, leading the team once again as he did prior to his injury.

"He (Paolo Banchero) makes us so much more dangerous," Magic center Goga Bitadze said. "He’s naturally, physically gifted. When you add all the other basketball stuff, he’s unguardable."

Where to watch Orlando Magic vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

The Orlando Magic vs. Minnesota Timberwolves game is scheduled to take place on Thursday, Jan. 9, at the Kia Center in Orlando, Florida. The game will tip off at 7 p.m. EST (4 p.m. PT).

The Magic vs. Timberwolves game will be broadcast live on NBA TV, FDSFL (local) and FDSN (local). The pre game coverage will begin one hour before tip-off. The live streaming of the game will be available on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions maybe applicable).