The Magic have been dealt an early blow to the lineup, as Orlando determined starting center Wendell Carter Jr. will undergo surgery to repair a fractured third metacarpal in his left hand.

Carter Jr., who was injured in the final seconds of Thursday’s win over the Jazz, is expected to be re-evaluated in approximately three weeks, with his status updated as appropriate.

He has struggled with shot through five games, having connected on just 37.8% of his attempts, well below his career mark of 51.4%. Overall, Carter Jr. is averaging 9.4 points and 8.6 rebounds in 29.4 minutes across 5 games this season.

INJURY UPDATE:@OrlandoMagic center Wendell Carter Jr. will undergo surgery to repair a fractured third metacarpal in his left hand.

Following surgery, Carter Jr. will be re-evaluated in approximately three weeks and his status will be updated as appropriate. #MagicTogether

— Orlando Magic PR (@Magic_PR) November 4, 2023