Isaiah Jackson Remains Sidelined with Concussion as Pacers Host Magic

As the Indiana Pacers prepare for a New Year’s Day matchup against the Orlando Magic on January 1, 2026, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, backup center Isaiah Jackson will miss his fifth consecutive game while navigating the NBA’s concussion protocol. The 23-year-old forward-center, known for his athletic rim protection and explosive finishing, has been out since suffering the injury in a December 22, 2025, game against the Boston Celtics.

Jackson’s absence comes at a challenging time for the Pacers, who enter the contest mired in a lengthy losing streak and plagued by injuries across the roster. With star point guard Tyrese Haliburton already ruled out for the season due to a torn Achilles, and other key players like Obi Toppin sidelined, Jackson’s defensive presence in the frontcourt has been missed. Veteran Tony Bradley is expected to continue handling backup center duties behind starter Jay Huff, providing depth in the paint against Orlando’s physical bigs.

The injury occurred early in the Pacers’ December 22 loss to Boston when Celtics center Neemias Queta delivered what coach Rick Carlisle described as two elbows to Jackson’s head in quick succession. Jackson played just two minutes before exiting for evaluation and did not return. Carlisle publicly called for the league to review the play, stating it “did not appear to be accidental” and posed a danger. The incident sparked discussions about player safety, with the Pacers submitting footage for potential league scrutiny.

Since then, Jackson has progressed through the concussion protocol but remains symptomatic or not yet cleared for full contact. This marks the fifth straight game he’s missed, including contests against the Bucks, Celtics (rematch), Rockets, and now the Magic. His next opportunity to return is Friday, January 3, against the visiting San Antonio Spurs, provided he clears the final stages of the protocol.

Born January 10, 2002, in Pontiac, Michigan, Isaiah Ju’mar Jackson has developed into a key rotational piece for Indiana since being drafted 22nd overall in 2021. After a standout freshman season at Kentucky, where he earned SEC All-Freshman and All-Defensive honors, Jackson was traded to the Pacers on draft night. His rookie year showed flashes, including a career-high 26 points and 10 rebounds against the Clippers in 2022.

Jackson’s career took a setback in November 2024 when he tore his right Achilles tendon, sidelining him for the remainder of that season. He made a strong recovery, signing a three-year, $21 million extension with Indiana in July 2025, signaling the organization’s belief in his long-term potential. Entering the 2025-26 campaign, Jackson averaged around 7-8 points, 6 rebounds, and nearly 2 blocks per game in limited minutes, often splitting time at center.

His athleticism—highlighted by a 42-inch vertical—and shot-blocking prowess make him a valuable energy player off the bench. Jackson ranks among the league leaders in blocks per minute when healthy, providing the Pacers with elite rim protection that complements starter Myles Turner (when healthy) or current starter Jay Huff.

The concussion protocol, a multi-step process mandated by the NBA, requires players to be symptom-free and progressively increase activity before returning. Steps include light aerobic exercise, strength training, sport-specific activities, and full-contact practice. Medical staff monitor for headaches, dizziness, nausea, and cognitive issues. Jackson’s prolonged absence suggests caution, especially given the long-term risks of concussions, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

For the Pacers, already decimated by injuries, Jackson’s absence thins an already shallow frontcourt. Jay Huff has stepped into the starting role, offering spacing with his three-point shooting but lacking Jackson’s explosive athleticism around the rim. Tony Bradley, a journeyman big man signed earlier in the season, brings veteran experience and rebounding but limited mobility. Bradley’s minutes have increased during this stretch, allowing coach Rick Carlisle to manage foul trouble and provide rest for Huff.

This game’s context adds urgency. Coming off a heartbreaking New Year’s Eve loss to the Magic—where Paolo Banchero’s late layup sealed a 112-110 defeat—the Pacers seek redemption in the rematch just days later. Indiana’s skid has reached double digits, with defensive lapses and offensive inconsistency compounding their woes. Orlando, bolstered by Banchero’s clutch play and a strong defensive identity, looks to sweep the quick series.

Without Jackson, the Pacers struggle more against physical interiors. Orlando’s length, featuring players like Goga Bitadze (a former Pacer), could exploit rebounding and second-chance opportunities. Bradley and Huff must contain drives and protect the paint effectively.

Jackson’s potential return against San Antonio offers hope. The Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama’s dominance, present another tough test, but a healthy Jackson could provide crucial shot-altering presence against the sophomore sensation.

Broader implications for Jackson include his development trajectory. At 6-9 with a 7-3 wingspan, he has the tools to become a defensive anchor. Consistency in health has been his biggest hurdle—first the Achilles, now the concussion. When available, he’s shown growth in finishing and rebounding.

Teammates and coaches have praised Jackson’s work ethic during rehab. His extension reflects mutual commitment, but sustained health is key to unlocking his ceiling.

As the Pacers navigate this turbulent season, Jackson’s return can’t come soon enough. His energy, blocks, and lob threat add dimensions the current lineup lacks. Fans hope the protocol clears him soon, allowing him to contribute in what remains a salvageable campaign despite the injuries.

In the meantime, Bradley steps up as the reliable backup, embodying the “next man up” mentality. Huff continues starting, stretching defenses and providing rim protection in his own right.

This injury update underscores the fragility of an NBA season. One play—a controversial elbow—derails a player’s rhythm and impacts team depth. The Pacers, battling adversity, await Jackson’s clearance while focusing on the immediate challenge: snapping the skid against a motivated Magic squad.

Jackson’s story is one of resilience—from Achilles recovery to now concussion protocol. His next chance Friday could mark a turning point, both personally and for Indiana’s frontcourt rotation.