Magic Rookie Izaiyah Nelson Faces Surgery After Left Ankle Fracture
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The Orlando Magic announced Sunday that second-round draft pick Izaiyah Nelson fractured his left ankle during a Las Vegas Summer League contest and will undergo surgery. The team projects a recovery window of three to four months, which would sideline the 6’10” center for training camp and likely the beginning of the 2026-27 regular season.
Nelson, selected No. 51 overall out of South Florida and immediately signed to a two-year two-way contract, was injured midway through the second quarter. According to the Orlando Sentinel, he came down on teammate TyTy Washington Jr. while attempting to block Portland guard Quincy Olivari.
Before the setback, the rookie had appeared in two Summer League games. He logged two points and six rebounds in 15 minutes Thursday against Charlotte, then posted six points and two boards in 17 minutes Saturday in a win over Miami.
Summer League coach DJ Bakker praised Nelson’s energy and physical style prior to the injury. “His competitiveness and motor are off the charts,” Bakker said, noting that the newcomer constantly communicates, sets strong screens, and embraces contact.
Nelson transferred to South Florida last season after three years at Arkansas State and helped the Bulls return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2012. He swept the American Athletic Conference’s top honors, earning Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and Newcomer of the Year.
Source: Hoops Rumors
