Photo: Peter Baba

Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic described the mental and physical challenges of dealing with multiple setbacks during an injury-plagued season that limited him to just 34 games.

After averaging 23.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists through his first 23 contests, Wagner suffered a left high ankle sprain that ultimately led to several lengthy absences throughout the year.

“It was very challenging. At the end of the day, if we’re not healthy as athletes, we can’t do our jobs, so that’s the most important thing,” Wagner said.

“And so there’s always that pressure that you need to be out there and perform and help the team out. So not being able to do that and not seeing the results in rehab, too, when you’re going really hard, it was really frustrating for me.

“And basically, trying to rehab the same injury three times in a year was tough for me, always having the same kind of setback feeling.”

Wagner admitted that repeatedly working his way back only to suffer additional setbacks made this season one of the most difficult experiences of his career.

Franz Wagner Hopes To Move Past Injury Issues https://t.co/uUkkdpSGak