Trade Talks Intensify for Pelicans Star Amid Stalled Contract Negotiations

Keep an eye on Brandon Ingram throughout the offseason, as his time with the New Orleans Pelicans may be approaching its end.

As reported by NBA correspondent Marc Stein on his Substack, the Pelicans are intensifying their efforts to trade Ingram, according to league sources.

The motivation behind this move stems from stalled contract extension talks between Ingram's camp and the Pelicans. Ingram's side, recognizing that the desired contract terms are unlikely to be offered, has also begun exploring trade options. Ingram enters the final year of his contract for the 2024-25 season, with his salary set at an estimated $36 million.

Ingram, who joined the Pelicans in 2019 as part of the trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers, has been a key player for New Orleans. Over his last five seasons, Ingram has averaged 23.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.

His tenure with the team includes two playoff berths in 2021 and 2024 and an All-Star appearance in the 2019-20 season as well as winning the Most Improved Player of the Year award, demonstrating his huge impact on the team. Ingram has also been praised for his ability to create shots for his teammates.

Despite his contributions, the Pelicans are considering a trade involving Ingram to facilitate other strategic moves. These include re-signing Trey Murphy III to a contract extension and strengthening their frontline, particularly with Jonas Valanciunas soon heading to Washington.

These decisions follow the Pelicans' decision to acquire Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks, signaling a broader strategy to reshape their roster after finishing with a 49-33 record in the regular season and getting swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.

According to Stein, Sacramento has emerged as a potential destination for Ingram. The Kings have shown interest in acquiring him, along with other notable players such as Lauri Markkanen from Utah, Kyle Kuzma from Washington, and DeMar DeRozan from Chicago.

Sacramento's trade considerations often involve packaging Kevin Huerter and Harrison Barnes, although Keegan Murray is off the table.

The Kings' interest in Ingram is particularly noteworthy due to Alvin Gentry's role in their front office. Gentry, who previously coached Ingram during his first season with the Pelicans, provides Sacramento with valuable insight into Ingram's capabilities and fit within their team dynamics.

The potential trade of Ingram marks a significant shift for the Pelicans as they navigate their future roster composition with the objective of surrounding franchise star Zion Williamson with the best talent possible continuing to be their top priority.

While Ingram has been a cornerstone of their offense, the franchise appears focused on making moves that align with their long-term goals and financial flexibility. The outcome of these trade discussions could have a profound impact on both the Pelicans' and Ingram's trajectories in the NBA.

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