The New Orleans Pelicansenter the 2026 offseason looking to reshape their roster following a disappointing 26-56 campaign. With new head coach Jamahl Mosley now leading the franchise, one intriguing storyline has emerged following the Orlando Magic‘s decision to waive veteran forwardJonathan Isaac.
While there is no indication that New Orleans is actively pursuing Isaac, the connection between the former Magic defensive standout and Mosley naturally raises questions about whether a reunion could make sense.
Mosley knows Isaac as well as any coach in the NBA.
Before becoming the head coach in Orlando, Mosley spent years helping develop the Magic’s young core. During his five-year run as Orlando’s head coach, Mosley worked closely with Isaac, witnessing firsthand how impactful the versatile defender could be when healthy.
That familiarity could prove valuable as Mosley begins constructing his vision for the Pelicans.
Defense Remains a Major Need
One of the biggest issues facing New Orleans over the last several seasons has been consistency on the defensive end.
The Pelicans finished the 2025-26 season near the bottom of the NBA in several defensive categories, often struggling to protect the rim, finish possessions with rebounds, and consistently defend multiple positions.
When healthy, Isaac has long been regarded as one of the league’s most versatile defenders.
At 6-foot-11 with elite length and instincts, Isaac has demonstrated the ability to defend guards, wings, and big men while also serving as a disruptive help defender. His defensive versatility could prove attractive for a Pelicans team looking to establish a new identity under Mosley.
The Biggest Question Is Availability
Of course, any discussion involving Isaac must begin with his injury history.
Injuries have unfortunately defined much of Isaac’s professional career. Multiple significant setbacks have limited his availability and prevented him from consistently remaining on the floor.
That reality likely contributed to Orlando’s decision to move on.
For New Orleans, the risk would have to align with the price.
The Pelicans are unlikely to invest heavily in another injury-prone player, but a low-cost, incentive-based contract could present minimal financial risk while potentially offering considerable upside.
Familiarity Could Accelerate the Transition
Another benefit of a potential reunion would be Isaac’s familiarity with Mosley’s defensive principles and coaching style.
As the Pelicans transition into a new era under Mosley, having a veteran who already understands the system could help accelerate the implementation process.
New Orleans is expected to feature several young contributors moving forward, including Derik Queen and other developing pieces. Isaac could potentially provide both leadership and on-court guidance while helping establish the culture Mosley hopes to build.
A Low-Risk Gamble Worth Exploring?
At this stage, a reunion between Jonathan Isaac and Jamahl Mosley remains purely speculative.
However, as free agency approaches, the existing relationship between player and coach makes New Orleans one of the more intriguing teams to monitor.
If the price is right and medical evaluations check out, the Pelicans could decide that taking a low-risk gamble on a familiar face is worth exploring.
Whether or not New Orleans ultimately pursues Isaac, his situation will certainly be worth monitoring as the offseason unfolds.
Would you like to see the Pelicans pursue Jonathan Isaac this offseason? Let us know in the comments below.
About the Author
Gee Bino is a senior columnist and digital publisher for The Who Dat Daily and TSC Media, covering the New Orleans Saints, Pelicans, LSU athletics, and Gulf South sports. He is also the founder and CEO of TSC Media and host of The Sports Coma, Pelican Postgame Report, and Tuff Tiger Talk, reaching thousands of sports supporters across the Gulf South daily.
