Orlando Magic Daily
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Orlando Magic’s five most important players going into training camp

By Jean Racine

LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 6: Jonathan Isaac #1 and Mohamed Bamba #5 of the Orlando Magic look on during the game against the Brooklyn Nets during the 2018 Las Vegas Summer League on July 6, 2018 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NV - JULY 6: Jonathan Isaac #1 and Mohamed Bamba #5 of the Orlando Magic look on during the game against the Brooklyn Nets during the 2018 Las Vegas Summer League on July 6, 2018 at the Cox Pavilion in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by David Dow/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Jonathan Isaac, Orlando Magic, Boston Celtics
ORLANDO, FL – MARCH 16: Jonathan Isaac #1 of the Orlando Magic shoots the ball against the Boston Celtics on March 16, 2018 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Jonathan Isaac

Jonathan Isaac needs to make major strides in his second season in the NBA. His rookie year did not go as planned, missing 55 games with lingering ankle and foot problems. But he averaged 1.1 blocks and 1.2 steals per game.

His defensive impact was undeniable for the Magic. Orlando gave up a team-best 101.1 points per 100 possessions with Isaac on the floor. The team’s overall average was 107.7 points allowed per 100 possessions.

The 20-year-old had an impressive summer league to follow up on that. There are high hopes for him next season.

Isaac led the team in scoring this July with 14.3 points per game in the summer league. He showed signs of an improved jumper, tighter handle and a better feel for the game. He was confident on the court and displayed the ability to create his own offense.

The defense was there too. In addition to his double block, Isaac averaged 2.7 blocks per game and 1.3 steals per game. He was a monster defensively in every way. Just like he was during the regular season.

Isaac needs to show up at training camp with added muscle and a tighter handle. If Isaac can take the leap, the Magic will have a lengthy, versatile, two-way wing.

He is still better suited to play off the ball and if he is inserted into the starting lineup, he will not be asked to play outside himself and create much offense.

The growth in his game on both sides of the ball should have Magic fans very excited.