Magic big man Jonathan Isaac hasn’t played yet this season and isn’t close to returning Jason Beede of the Orlando Sentinel reports. Isaac is still rehabilitating from a left knee injury sustained in March.
“It’s the same” – said Isaac. “It was a sprain and a bruise. And I had a little bit of a nerve problem on the left side of my knee. So fighting through that, unfortunately, it’s been a slow process, but it’s been steady. So I’m happy to know that I’m going to play this season.”
Isaac re-signed with the Magic on a veteran’s minimum contract this summer after they waived him. He was already guaranteed $8 million on his $14.5 million contract before being waived. He played in 52 games last season.
Isaac is optimistic that he is making progress toward a return to action.
“I’m taking a big step forward. I’ve been playing 3-on-3,” he said. “My knee has to settle down over the next few days and then take the next big step, playing 4-on-4. So it’s just like taking a couple steps forward, a little bit back, a couple steps forward, a little bit back until my knee adjusts to real contact, 100% speed and everything.”
Here’s more from the Southeast Division:
- Nikola Jovichwho was on the bench in Heat last game, says he’s getting used to an uncertain role. Jovic’s four-year, $64.2 million extension began this season. “I’ve been through things like this before. So I can’t say I wasn’t expecting this.” Jovich said, trans Anthony Chung of the Miami Herald. “But yes the more you get used to it, the easier it becomes. I’m just ready for whatever comes next.” coach Erik Spoelstra admits that he is still looking for the right moments for the role of Jovic. “I’m still trying to find that place for Nick” he said. “So it’s different than last year because he was giving us good minutes.”
- Forward Kevin Knoxwhich was refused by Magic during training camp, unlisted G League Osceala Magic, Beede tweets. Knox was at the negotiations with the Spanish team earlier this month. Knox spent all of last season in the G League with the Windy City Bulls.
- Brandon Miller signed a five-year, $208.8 million extension from Hornets this month. Miller is now seen as the leader of the team, Rod Boone writes in the Sporting News article. “They say, ‘You’re the guy, we believe in you.'” Hornets coach Charles Lee said of how teammates view Miller. “So when we put the ball in your hands, go play. For yourself, for your teammates.” Not only is Brandon ready for it, but his teammates want to see him in those moments and they cheer him on in those moments, which helps a lot, too.”
