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Orlando Magic: 5 predictions for the 2018-19 NBA season

By Chris Murch

PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 01: Head coach Steve Clifford of the Orlando Magic talks to Mohamed Bamba #5 during a timeout during the second quarter of the preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on October 1, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 01: Head coach Steve Clifford of the Orlando Magic talks to Mohamed Bamba #5 during a timeout during the second quarter of the preseason game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center on October 1, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Jonathan Isaac (if healthy) has breakout season

Big “IF” alert. Yes, we all know about Isaac’s injury issues. He didn’t help his cause by re-injuring the ankle Monday not even a half into game one, although he seems to be fine. However, Isaac has the most upside of anyone on the Magic roster and could turn into a really good player quickly if he can play a full season.

Isaac is the full package. He’s a true seven-footer who plays mostly on the perimeter. His length means that he is adept at guarding 2-5 on the floor and is quick enough, laterally and vertically, to stick with guards defensively, extending out to 30 feet.

He is the type of “switch everything” forward that makes coaches salivate when they think about defensive schemes. His versatility on this end makes the Magic a formidable defensive opponent, especially when Isaac is paired with Mo Bamba and Aaron Gordon. This length on the floor can bring big problems for teams both near the arc and inside. If Isaac and company have solid defensive chemistry this season, the league better watch out.

Offensively, Isaac left a lot to the imagination in year one. In this injury-shortened season (only 27 games played) Isaac averaged 5.4 points, 3.7 rebounds and 0.7 assists a game. He shot a paltry 37.9 percent from the floor and an even worse 34.8 percent from 3. After being picked sixth by Orlando in 2017, his year was a big disappointment, although it wasn’t entirely his fault with the injuries.

Come Summer League, all eyes were on Isaac to showcase what he couldn’t last season. He did this by flashing incredible two-way potential and showing an expanded offensive game. He was hitting turnaround jump shots, flying into the lane for offensive rebounds, finishing in clogged lanes, hitting mid-range shots, hitting 3s and showcased an improved handle. He also showed go-to playmaking ability that had Orlando media and fans excited.

His defensive chemistry with rookie Mo Bamba was on full display as well, showing a potential “Twin Towers” lineup at the 4 and 5 moving forward.

The future is bright for Isaac. Very bright. Rarely do you see a true seven-foot forward that has playmaking ability and high defensive upside. If he can stay healthy (again, big “if”), Isaac has the potential to become a force in this league. Expect for him to put it all together this season and contribute in a big way for Orlando.

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