Orlando Magic PF Jonathan Isaac: Defensive Player of the Year?

Orlando Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley believes big man Jonathan Isaac is one of the best defensive players in the league.

ORLANDO - There has never been a question of how good Orlando Magic forward Jonathan Isaac could be defensively, but the big man has often struggled to stay on the court long enough to reach his full potential. 

Now, the Magic is starting to see just how good Isaac can be, most recently in a 112-97 win over Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks. 

"He's a guy that should be on All-Defensive team," Mosley said. "If not at some point moving into that Defensive Player of the Year conversation because he's that good. He's got a special gift, and he wants all those challenges and it's great that we have a team of guys that want to take on all defensive challenges."

Jonathan Isaac is in his seventh NBA season, all with the Orlando Magic.  / Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports

Isaac played just 17 minutes against the Bucks as Orlando tries to preserve his health throughout the season, but his impact in limited time on the court was felt. In addition to dropping 10 points and five rebounds, he also had two steals and a block while playing great defense against one of the best players in the league. 

The 26-year-old is averaging 3.6 blocks and 2.0 steals per 36 minutes this season, but has yet to play more than 17 minutes in a game. In his seventh NBA season, Isaac has played in just 154 games, the equivalent of a little under two full seasons. 

As the Magic now consider themselves contenders for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, staying healthy is paramount. They have already lost Wendell Carter Jr. for extended time, so Isaac staying healthy could be key in staying afloat until he can return.