Kofi Inkoom
The Sacramento Kings have tried to build their team around star players De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, but their early exit in the 2023 playoffs and absence from the 2024 playoffs indicate they haven’t succeeded.
Facing a crucial off-season, the Kings might explore trades to land their next star. Although many fans hoped their 2022 fourth-overall pick, Keegan Murray, would blossom into a star, acquiring a proven player this summer could be their best bet, even if it means parting with Murray.
According to reports from HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, Brandon Ingram is the most likely player from the New Orleans Pelicans to be traded, offering Sacramento a chance to swoop in if he becomes available.
Oddsmakers at Bovada rank the Kings as the third-best team to acquire Brandon Ingram:
1. Orlando Magic: +300
2. Atlanta Hawks: +400
3. Sacramento Kings: +750
4. Cleveland Cavaliers: +750
5. Philadelphia 76ers: +800
6. Phoenix Suns: +1000
Ingram has one year left on his contract worth $36 million. While it’s a risk for the Kings to pursue him in a contract year, forming a trio of Fox, Ingram, and Sabonis could elevate the Sacramento team.
At 26, Ingram had slightly lower stats last season, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, compared to his previous seasons. Despite playing second fiddle to Zion Williamson in New Orleans, he could thrive alongside top-notch playmakers like Fox and Sabonis in Sacramento.
If the Kings aim to make a significant move this summer, reaching out to New Orleans about Ingram’s availability could be their starting point.