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Magic Waive Jonathan Isaac Ahead of Contract Guarantee Deadline

By freeing roughly $6.5 million in 2026–27 cap space the move converts Isaac into an unrestricted free agent able to negotiate with any team

Overview

  • The Orlando Magic waived Jonathan Isaac on Saturday, June 27, 2026, to avoid triggering a June 28 guarantee that would have raised his 2026–27 salary to a fully guaranteed $14.5 million.
  • Waiving Isaac before the deadline saves the Magic about $6.5 million for next season and reduces projected luxury-tax exposure, creating immediate roster and financial flexibility below the NBA’s second apron.
  • Isaac becomes an unrestricted free agent and can speak with all teams beginning Tuesday at 6 p.m. ET, and reports name clubs such as the Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings and New York Knicks as potential suitors.
  • Orlando reportedly declined to use a stretch provision on the remaining money, a choice that preserves the theoretical option to re-sign Isaac if he clears waivers and both sides agree.
  • A former No. 6 pick who spent nine seasons in Orlando, Isaac’s career was repeatedly limited by knee injuries including a torn left ACL and his release opens four standard roster spots while affecting the team’s short-term player-building plans.