Jonathan Isaac‘s time with the Magic has come to an end.
Orlando is waiving the veteran forward/center, according to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, ending an eight-year run that was repeatedly interrupted by injuries.
Isaac carried a $14.5 million salary for next season, though only $8 million was guaranteed through Sunday. By making the move now, the Magic avoid having the remainder of his contract become fully guaranteed and create additional financial flexibility heading into free agency.
The team also has the option of stretching Isaac’s guaranteed money over multiple seasons, reducing the immediate salary-cap hit.
Once viewed as one of the NBA’s premier young defensive players, Isaac struggled to regain that form after a series of major injuries. From 2019-20 through 2022-23, he appeared in just 45 games.
Last season, Isaac averaged 2.6 points and 2.5 rebounds in 52 appearances while playing about 10 minutes per game.
The move doesn’t necessarily close the door on a future reunion. If Orlando elects not to stretch Isaac’s guaranteed salary, league rules would allow him to re-sign with the Magic on a minimum contract after clearing waivers.
But at this point, the organization appears ready to move in a different direction.
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