As the Golden State Warriors continue to search for a second NBA star to pair with Stephen Curry, Brandon Ingram’s name has surfaced in trade rumors. However, despite the speculation, it appears unlikely that the Warriors will pursue a deal for the New Orleans Pelicans forward.
According to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Monte Poole, there are reservations within the Warriors’ front office about targeting Ingram, making a trade highly improbable.
Ingram Doesn’t Seem to Be a Consensus Target
After losing Klay Thompson earlier this summer, the Warriors have been linked to several potential trade targets, including Paul George and Lauri Markkanen, but have missed out on both.
With the February 6 trade deadline approaching, Golden State remains active in exploring options to bolster their roster. Ingram, a former All-Star, has been mentioned as a potential solution to fill the scoring void. However, Poole’s report suggests the Warriors aren’t sold on making a significant move for the 26-year-old forward.
“In the eight years since [Kevin Durant] departed, the Oubre deal is the only individual move made under the theory that it alone would be enough to keep the Warriors among the contenders,” Poole wrote. “Every move since, including the addition of Chris Paul last summer, was made to supplement the roster rather than expand its core. Brandon Ingram, to cite an example, is among those who, according to sources, does not meet that level. There’s enough pro/con that any chance of him coming to Golden State is minuscule.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans, Golden State Warriors Updates
Despite Ingram’s offensive prowess and potential fit next to Curry, Poole’s report indicates that he’s not considered a slam-dunk acquisition. The Warriors’ leadership, led by general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr., is reportedly hesitant to part with the necessary assets unless they feel it’s a “can’t-miss” opportunity. Ingram, it seems, doesn’t meet that threshold.
Warriors Remain Cautious Ahead of Trade Deadline
The Warriors, who have been aiming to retool after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign, are still searching for the right piece to complement Curry and elevate them back into the upper echelon of the Western Conference. However, as Poole noted, the team has taken a measured approach to roster construction since Kevin Durant’s departure in 2019.
The potential acquisition of Chris Paul earlier in the offseason is a prime example of Golden State’s cautious strategy. The Warriors are looking to make smart, calculated moves that add depth and versatility to the roster rather than sacrificing core assets for a player who may not be the ideal fit.
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Ingram’s offensive game is well-regarded, and he would undoubtedly add another layer of scoring alongside Curry, but there are concerns about his ability to significantly elevate the team.
Additionally, his fit within the Warriors’ system, which relies heavily on movement and unselfish play, may not be seamless. For a franchise with championship aspirations, every move must be carefully scrutinized, and according to Poole’s sources, Ingram simply doesn’t check enough boxes.
What’s Next for the Warriors?
As the February trade deadline looms, the Warriors are expected to remain active in trade talks. However, unless a truly impactful player becomes available, Golden State may choose to stand pat rather than make a move that doesn’t guarantee an immediate return to contention.
While Ingram’s name may continue to circulate in rumors, Poole’s report suggests the Warriors won’t be prioritizing a deal for the Pelicans forward.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans, Golden State Warriors Updates
As Poole put it, “There’s enough pro/con that any chance of him coming to Golden State is minuscule.” For now, the Warriors are likely to keep exploring other avenues while monitoring the market for potential upgrades, but they won’t force a move that doesn’t align with their long-term vision.
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