Magic Before Jonathan Isaac is known for its elite defense.
He recorded at least one block 33 times and two or more 16 times, as well as at least one steal 25 times and two or more nine times.
There’s a reason his nickname is “Minister of Defense” and he can change the way Orlando (42-28) defends against some of the league’s best such as Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo and Dallas’ Luka Doncic.
But as Isaac has become more comfortable after playing just 11 games last season following more than two years off the field due to leg injuries. His offense has grown in his 48 games played – the second-most of his career.
“Just finding that rhythm while he’s on the court, that’s a big part of it,” Magic coach Jamahl Mosley said during shootaround Thursday, before a 121-106 win over the Pelicans at the Kia Center. “Guys find him and trust him. [He is] willing to intervene in his shot but also [is] able to take the ball off the dribble a little.
“These things just find comfort zones over time.”
The Pelicans (42-27) entered having won 8 of their last 10 games. Isaac averaged 10.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in his last six games.
During that stretch, he also shot 64.7% from 3-point range, making 1.8 shots on 2.8 attempts. In addition to spreading the floor, Isaac often cuts to the basket from the corners to pick up points in the paint.
“I just feel more comfortable,” Isaac recently told the Sentinel. “I just relax a little more and it gives me an opportunity to score the ball on other guys who are finding me, making reads, cutting me and doing my best to be available.”
Although his scoring is up (for the season, he’s averaging 6.6 points), the Magic are still figuring out how long he can play each night. Isaac had 9 points, 5 rebounds and 2 steals on Thursday.
Jalen Suggs (22 points), Paolo Banchero (20) and Franz Wagner (18) led Orlando, which made 14 of 36 from 3 (39%). Trey Murphy (21) and Zion Williamson (20) led New Orleans.
He plays an average of 15 minutes per game but misses 20 due to injuries. He usually plays in the second and fourth quarters and sometimes closes out games based on defensive matchups.
It’s important for Isaac to find consistent minutes in preparation for the playoffs.
“It always comes down to being able to play your best basketball in March and April,” Mosley said.
Although he has been a defensive game changer for Orlando, Isaac is not averse to helping out on offense.
“I like it,” he said. “I’ll just go ahead and try to do the same.”
Jason Beede can be contacted at [email protected]
