Magic's Paolo Banchero drops major update on anticipated return amid 70-day injury hiatus 

Orlando Magic's Paolo Banchero is dropping major hints on Instagram about his comeback from a 70-day injury hiatus. Banchero last played on Oct. 30, dropping 31 points against the Chicago Bulls, two days after scoring a career-high 51 points against the Indiana Pacers.

However, the Magic and Banchero suffered a significant blow amid a career season as the third-year forward sustained a right-torn oblique, ruling him out for the past 10 weeks. The wait seems to be over for his anticipated return. Banchero mentioned it in his latest Instagram post, sharing a montage of pics of his sideline looks in street clothes.

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

Paolo Banchero was in contention to return for Monday's game against the New York Knicks with a questionable status. However, he was ruled out as a game-time decision.

Banchero's next chance to suit up would be on Thursday when they host Anthony Ewards and the Timberwolves.

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Orlando Magic have survived Paolo Banchero's injury absence better than expected

The Orlando Magic have survived Paolo Banchero's injury absence better than expected. The Magic were 3-2 when Banchero's injury happened. Since then, they have improved to 22-16. They were on a four-game losing streak right after he got sidelined, but Orlando turned it around with 12 wins in the next 13 games.

Their record has been uneven since, with seven wins in 16 games. They have dealt with other injury blows, with Franz Wagner, Mo Wagner, Jalen Suggs and Gary Harris also missing considerable time. The Magic are still without these players. Franz could return over the next few weeks while Mo is out for the season. Suggs and Harris are day-to-day.

Banchero's return would significantly boost the Magic amid their injury woes. He was on fire to start the season. Banchero is also vital in Orlando's offense, especially without Franz Wagner. The Magic are about to play their toughest stretch, with consecutive matchups against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Milwaukee Bucks (twice), Philadelphia 76ers, Boston Celtics and the Denver Nuggets up next.