Ex-Lakers star reportedly could be centerpiece of blockbuster three-team trade

The Los Angeles Lakers may see a former lottery draft pick form a tandem with one of the league's most feared stars.

Brandon Ingram has been the rumored odd man out in New Orleans since last year. With the Pelican's move to land Dejounte Murray in the offseason along with the rise of Trey Murphy, the 27-year-old could be on the move sooner rather than later.

Bleacher Report's Andy Bailey created a trade hypothetical in which Ingram finds himself with the San Antonio Spurs in a star duo with former first-overall pick Victor Wembenyana.

" Spurs Receive: Brandon Ingram and Dean Wade," Bailey wrote Tuesday morning. "Pelicans Receive: Jarrett Allen (cannot be traded till January 27, 2025), Caris LeVert, Julian Champagnie, and a top-five-protected 2029 first-round pick (from San Antonio). Cavaliers Receive: Keldon Johnson, Zach Collins, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and a top-five-protected 2029 first-round pick (from New Orleans)."

Ingram was drafted third overall by the Lakers in 2016. The former Duke star looked to be the next cornerstone for the Lakers, but he was dealt to the Pelicans as part of a blockbuster trade to bring superstar Anthony Davis to LA.

Since joining NOLA, the versatile wing has averaged 23.1 points, 5.5 rebounds and 5.2 assists in 287 games. Despite showcasing his diverse skillset, the Pelicans remain reluctant to match the former top-five pick’s asking price in his next contract. With that said, this proposed three-team trade scenario could resolve the Pelican's ongoing dilemma.

This deal would ultimately send Ingram to San Antonio to pair the lengthy forward alongside a generational talent in Wembanyama. Not only would the 27-year-old's playmaking ability and scoring give Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich plenty of diversity in his lineups next year, but the length on defense could help San Antonio make a playoff push in just the second year of the Wemby era.

Adding Ingram alongside other offseason acquisitions like Chris Paul and Harrison Barnes would greatly add to the Spur's impressive rotation. This move could put the Spurs in a position to be a play-in team at the very least, or a mid-level seed in the Western Conference.

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