Kofi Inkoom
The trade speculations about Brandon Ingram have been intensifying this summer, with many teams looking to acquire him.
According to Christian Clark of the New Orleans Times, the rumors hold weight as the Pelicans reportedly have no interest in signing the veteran forward to a max extension that would span four years and be worth a projected $208.5 million through the 2028-29 season.
“Brandon Ingram has one year remaining on his contract. On July 6, he becomes eligible to sign a four-year extension worth $208 million. The Pelicans value Ingram’s talent and his down-to-earth personality, but as The Times-Picayune reported in May, the team does not have a willingness to pay him a contract worth $52 million in average annual value,” Clark writes.
Without an extension, Ingram would become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2025. Over five years with New Orleans, Ingram has averaged 23.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. He was an All-Star in 2020 and a part of Team USA at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
Looking beyond Ingram, New Orleans aims to restructure their roster around Zion Williamson, Herb Jones, and Trey Murphy III. One player of interest to the Pelicans is Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen. As Christian Clark adds, the Pelicans have long pursued Allen but have yet to strike a deal with Cleveland.
They seek a center who offers more rim protection than impending free agent Jonas Valanciunas. Although current reports indicate that Donovan Mitchell wants Cleveland to retain Allen this offseason, the right trade package might persuade the Cavaliers’ management to reconsider.