Despite his incredible defensive potential, Victor Wembanyama’s path to winning his first Defensive Player of the Year will be difficult next season, with Jonathan Isaac poised to become a worthy contender for the individual award, especially if he stays healthy and starts getting enough minutes from the Orlando Magic or his new team.
NBA expert Mo Dakhil released a 40-second video on X of Isaac swatting jumpers and closing down Damian Lillard on the perimeter during the Magic’s final regular-season game against the Milwaukee Bucks.
Dakhil stated in his caption that Isaac has the tools and defensive prowess to fight with Wembanyama for Defensive Player of the Year next season.
Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer concurred with Dalkhil that Isaac has outstanding perimeter defense and will be a lock for All-Defensive teams as soon as he receives starter minutes from the Magic or his new team next season.
Isaac Could Become A Free Agent This Summer
Isaac, who averaged 6.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 0.9 steals in 58 games this season after recovering from a torn left adductor muscle surgery, could enter free agency this summer because the last year of his $17 million contract is non-guaranteed.
The Magic are interested in signing impending free agency Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors and other players that can provide outside shooting for the squad.
However, the Magic would have to renounce several non-guaranteed deals on their payroll – including Isaac’s contract – to create enough room to accommodate their desired player.
