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Orlando Magic have lineup options in bringing back Jonathan Isaac

By Dan Bennett

Jonathan Isaac is still rehabbing from his knee injury and likely will not be ready to go for training camp. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Jonathan Isaac is still rehabbing from his knee injury and likely will not be ready to go for training camp. Mandatory Credit: Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports /
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ORLANDO, FL – APRIL 18: Wendell Carter Jr. #34 of the Orlando Magic attempts a shot as Kelly Olynyk #41 of the Houston Rockets defends during the first half at Amway Center on April 18, 2021 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. (Photo by Alex Menendez/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FL – APRIL 18: Wendell Carter Jr. #34 of the Orlando Magic attempts a shot as Kelly Olynyk #41 of the Houston Rockets defends during the first half at Amway Center on April 18, 2021 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. (Photo by Alex Menendez/Getty Images) /

Preparing for Jonathan Isaac’s Return

Wendell Carter

After playing center for the vast majority of his NBA career prior to this season, Wendell Carter has finally gotten his wish — one he first expressed while with the Chicago Bulls — to play the power forward position.

And Carter has shown some promise as a 4 rather than a 5 despite his role remaining somewhat limited. He is scoring 13.2 points per game this season, he has improved as a shooter from beyond the arc by making 35.7-percent of his attempts and he has continued to defend well.

But Jonathan Isaac’s return, albeit likely from the bench at first, will pose a difficult decision for coach Jamahl Mosley as to where Wendell Carter’s future lies.

Jonathan Isaac will not be used at the 5 aside from short-term lineups like the one with Franz Wagner at the 5 in Monday’s game.

Isaac’s versatility and ability to defend the perimeter is too important an asset to have him at center, meaning if Wagner is to stay at the 3 and Isaac is to play the 4, Carter will have to be dropped to the bench or moved back to the five.

At this point, it seems the latter option would make the most sense.

At 6-foot-10, Carter is not as big as some centers in the league but has already proven he can defend the bigger guys when required. Some of his defense against Nikola Jokic in the win over the Denver Nuggets earlier this month is a prime example of his ability to defend the post.

It might not be his favored position, but it is one he can play very well and might just give the Magic the best chance of succeeding in the future.