Breakdown
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18. April 2026
Logs garbage time in play-in win
Howard played the final 5:43 of Friday's 121-90 win over the Hornets in the Play-In Tournament, finishing with three points (1-3 FG, 1-2 3Pt) and one rebound.
Analyse
Howard missed the final five games of the regular season due to a left ankle sprain before being cleared in advance of the Magic's first game of the Play-In Tournament on Wednesday. He didn't end up seeing any run in Wednesday's 109-97 loss to the 76ers but was able to see some minutes in garbage time Friday. Based on how he was used Wednesday and Friday, Howard doesn't look like he'll be a regular factor in the rotation during the Magic's upcoming first-round playoff series versus the Pistons.
15. April 2026
Good to go Wednesday
Howard (ankle) is available for Wednesday's Play-In Tournament game against the 76ers.
Analyse
Howard missed the final five outings of the regular season due to a left ankle sprain, though he'll be available for Wednesday's contest. Over 55 regular-season appearances, he averaged 5.5 points in 12.6 minutes per tilt, and he isn't guaranteed meaningful run against Philadelphia.
14. April 2026
Iffy for Wednesday
Howard (ankle) is questionable for Wednesday's Play-In Tournament game against the 76ers.
Analyse
A left ankle sprain cost Howard the final five contests of the regular season, but the third-year forward has a chance to return Wednesday. If Howard cannot give it a go, Tristan da Silva would likely see an uptick in playing time in the frontcourt.
12. April 2026
Ruled out Sunday
Howard (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Celtics.
Analyse
Howard will end the regular season with a fifth consecutive absence due to a left ankle sprain. The third-year wing set career highs essentially across the board and will finish the regular season with averages of 5.5 points, 1.6 rebounds and 0.8 assists across 12.6 minutes per game in 55 appearances off the bench.