Report: Magic's Jonathan Isaac, Markelle Fultz won't be ready for start of season

Jonathan Isaac and Markelle Fultz won't be available for the Orlando Magic's season-opening game against the San Antonio Spurs on Oct. 20, according to The Athletic's Josh Robbins.

Isaac and Fultz are still recovering from significant ACL injuries. Isaac tore his ACL and meniscus in August 2020 and Fultz tore his ACL in January 2021.

Neither player has suffered a setback, according to Magic president Jeff Weltman.

"They have not only cleared every hurdle from a timeline perspective, but they've improved (on the court). They're better," Weltman said, according to Robbins. "So I credit them and our staff, both the performance and coaching, with using that time productively."

Isaac missed the entire 2020-21 season, but had a solid 2019-20 campaign, averaging 11.9 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game during the 2019-20 campaign while shooting 47% from the field and 34% from deep.

Fultz, meanwhile, averaged 12.9 points, 5.4 assists and 3.1 rebounds over 12 games last season before tearing his ACL. 

Isaac and Fultz were both signed to contract extensions in December 2020. Isaac signed a four-year, $80 million deal and Fultz agreed to a three-year, $50 million contract. 

While Isaac will miss the start of the season, he could also be ruled out for games in cities where vaccination is required for large indoor events. He is unvaccinated and has no intention to get the shot.