Jonathan Issac Injury Update: When Will the Orlando Magic’s Star Return?

Jonathan Issac is a young star for the Orlando Magic who has currently missed quite a few games for the team. NBA fans are aware that the Magic are one of the lower-tier teams in the Eastern Conference. This is despite drafting Paolo Banchero, a move that should help any rebuilding team.

The Magic currently hold a record of 5 wins and 20 losses, the worst in the NBA. Perhaps, a significant reason why this happened is the extended absence of Jonathan Issac. We know that it is highly unlikely that one player makes things all that different for a team. Nonetheless, the Magic would certainly be better if they had him on the floor.

With that being said, one should wonder more about him and what injury he is currently recovering from. Additionally, we could also find out if his return will make a significant difference.

What injury does Jonathan Issac suffer and how?

We are used to NBA players going through minor injuries all the time. Even an ankle roll during an awkward landing could take quite a few weeks to heal. However, what Issac is going through is no ordinary ankle roll and has required serious treatment.

Jonathan has now missed two seasons in the NBA. He injured his knee on August 2nd, 2020 against the Sacramento Kings. This turned out to be a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Effectively, a tearing of the ACL.

As we all know, an ACL tear is considered a death sentence for an NBA athlete. After all, basketball is a sport that requires explosives and quick lateral movement of the feet. It is highly unlikely for an NBA player to go through such a catastrophic injury and return to continue playing at a high level.

However, this should not discourage Magic fans. We should remember that Kevin Durant and Klay Thompson are two NBA stars who made successful returns after similar injuries. Moreover, they were both comparatively older than Issac who is now only 25 years old.

The 6’11 power forward has averaged 9.3 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in his stunted NBA career. Hopefully, he is able to make a full recovery and return soon. There is no fixed timetable for his return. However, the Magic are confident that it is closer than ever.