ORLANDO – It’s been 904 days, a period of time spanning across four different seasons, since Jonathan Isaac played in NBA action.
However, that unfortunate tally comes to an end on Monday night.
Isaac is expected to return to the floor from a devastating left knee injury when the Orlando Magic host the Boston Celtics tonight at 7 p.m. ET.
The No. 6 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft missed both the entire 2020-21 and 21-22 seasons due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee that was suffered on Aug. 2, 2020 against the Sacramento Kings during the NBA restart at Disney. While rehabbing at the end of last season, the 25-year-old suffered a minor right hamstring injury and underwent a small surgical procedure.
After missing the last two-and-a-half seasons, Isaac recently took a major step in his rehab process by playing with Orlando’s G League affiliate, the Lakeland Magic.
The 6-foot-10, 230-pound forward appeared in three contests with Lakeland – all victories – averaging 15.7 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.0 blocks in 17.7 minutes per game.
“So many things go through your head when you’re watching Jonathan play,” said Magic President of Basketball Operations Jeff Weltman after Isaac played in his first G League contest this season. “Just how proud you are, how happy you are for him, and just how much he’s worked. How much he’s poured his whole heart and soul into this. Just so happy for him. Really, I can’t find the words, honestly.”
After missing such an extended period of time, Isaac is expected to come off the bench and will be on a minutes restriction for the Magic’s matchup against the Celtics.
The matchup will mark the fourth time the two teams have met this season. After Boston spoiled Orlando’s home opener, the Magic earned two straight road victories against the Celtics, who currently possess the NBA’s best record (35-12).
IN AND OUT: Orlando will be without Kevon Harris (G League – Two-Way), Caleb Houstan (G League – On Assignment) and Chuma Okeke (left knee surgery) on Monday night.
For Boston, Robert Williams III (left knee injury management) is questionable, while Malcolm Brogdon (personal reasons), Danilo Gallinari (left knee; ACL repair) and Marcus Smart (right ankle sprain) are out.
HOW TO WATCH: Watch the game on Bally Sports Florida or tune in on radio via FM 96.9 The Game.