The Orlando Magic have just confirmed what most have already expected with regards to the availability of promising young forward Jonathan Isaac for the 2020-21 campaign. After tearing his left ACL and meniscus in only the Magic's second game since the restart, it has now been confirmed that Isaac will miss the entirety of next season.
Magic president Jeff Weltman delivered the news at his end-of-season press conference, per Tim Reynolds of The Associated Press. Isaac underwent surgery in early August.
This development does not come as a surprise. ACL injuries are some of the worst in sports, and the timetable for recovery is extremely lengthy. After playing just 32 games this season, Isaac will be forced to sit out what would have been his fourth year in the league. This serves as a huge blow not only for the Magic, but more importantly, in the development of this highly touted forward. The silver lining here is that Isaac is just 22, and he still has a lot of basketball ahead of him.
Isaac made headlines inside the bubble when he opted not to kneel during the playing of the national anthem. He cited his religious beliefs as the reason behind his decision, which garnered both praise and criticism.
It is worth noting that Jonathan Isaac's injury could also have a huge impact on Aaron Gordon's career in Orlando. There were earlier reports that the Magic were shopping Gordon on the trade market because of the logjam in the frontcourt. Now with Isaac out for all of next season, Orlando might opt to keep Gordon in place.
Follow Us
Subscribe