It’s getting a little difficult to be optimistic about Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic at this point in his NBA career. When he’s on the floor, he’s outstanding. Isaac looks the part of a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate. He can guard multiple positions, and do it at an elite level.
Unfortunately, he’s almost never on the floor. We’ve seen injuries derail promising careers before. With that said, we’ve rarely seen a player’s health get off to this rough of a start.
Still, the potential remains tantalizing. It wouldn’t be a shock to see some NBA team take a risk on Isaac. With that said, if the Magic want to get value for him, they may have to attach draft capital. Could they send him to the Washington Wizards?
The Trade Proposal
Orlando Magic Receive: G Tyus Jones, F Danilo Gallinari
Washington Wizards Receive: F/C Jonathan Isaac, 2025 First-Round Pick (DEN via ORL)
With that said, Isaac’s injury history isn’t the only notable – and possibly negative – thing about him. Isaac is also known for his political views. We don’t want to fall too far down this rabbit hole, but let it be said that they’re controversial.
According to some reports, that’s rubbed some members of the Magic the wrong way. Of course, this wouldn’t be an issue if Isaac was healthy. His game is too strong for teams to concern themselves with his politics.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jonathan Isaac, Washington Wizards & Orlando Magic Updates
Yet, in tandem, the issues are problematic. In any event, it feels like Orlando has already moved on from Isaac. Should they send him to Washington?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
We say that the Magic may have moved on from Isaac. What do we mean? Well, look at their roster. Paolo Banchero is clearly this team’s starting 4. Franz Wagner is entrenched as the 3. Does Orlando really need another wing?
No. What they need is a floor spacing guard. If that guard is a reliable, steady ball-handler who never turns the ball over, that’s even better.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jonathan Isaac, Washington Wizards & Orlando Magic Updates
That’s Jones. Meanwhile, Orlando doesn’t need to cling to this first-round pick for dear life. It’s coming from the Nuggets, so it’s likely to be a late first – and they’ve got enough young talent to develop. Should it be enough for Washington to take on Isaac?
Why The Washington Wizards Do The Deal
Well, the question is less one of what the Wizards gain here. The question is this: what do they lose? The answer is Tyus Jones. He’s an excellent player. At 27, he may not have a long-term home in Washington anyway.
with that in mind, the Wizards would do well to flip him for a first-round pick. That move alone justifies this deal. With that said, taking a flyer on Isaac doesn’t hurt, either.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: Jonathan Isaac, Washington Wizards & Orlando Magic Updates
If it doesn’t work out? Fine. Isaac is on an expiring contract. On the other hand, if it does work out, the Wizards could be landing a major steal here. Even if it’s a bit hard to be optimistic about it.
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