Orlando Magic PF Jonathan Isaac Must 'Show What He's Worth'

After an injury-ridden past few seasons, Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac must prove his worth if he is to remain a rotational piece behind Paolo Banchero.

It's been a long three years for Jonathan Isaac.

Since the Orlando Magic forward tore his ACL in the NBA Bubble over three years ago, he has faced setback after setback on his journey to getting healthy again. After finally recovering from his injury last season, Isaac returned on Jan. 23 to score 10 points in 10 minutes in his first game back. 

Just 39 days later, he was back on the injury report with a torn left adductor muscle, ending his season prematurely after just 11 games.

"Beset by injuries since the 2020 season restart, he’s appeared in 11 games in three seasons," NBA.com writes. "Orlando can now release or trade him without much financial harm, so it’s imperative that Isaac, a decent defender, show what he’s worth."

After an injury-ridden past few seasons, Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac must prove his worth if he is to remain a rotational piece behind Paolo Banchero

Isaac was 22 when he went out with that ACL tear. Now, at 26 years old, he finds himself in the situation where the team that has held out faith in him for over three seasons to put on the pressure. The 2023-24 season becomes vital for the 6-11 forward, as it will be his last chance to prove his value before the Magic cut the string on him.

Once deemed a future franchise player after averaging 11.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and 1.6 steals per game in his 34 games in the 2019-20 season, Isaac now looks to be a solid three-and-D player for the team while using his height and length to play defense in any area of the court.

While he hasn't played much in the preseason, Isaac had a healthy and productive offseason, and will be ready for the start of the regular season to provide valuable minutes off the bench behind Paolo Banchero.