Brandon Ingram is on the move.
The New Orleans Pelicans are fully intent on trading the All-Star wing, per Forbes’ Evan Sidery.
But where will Ingram land? With trade packages from the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors, and New York Knicks floating around in the ether, it’s time to examine how the Cleveland Cavaliers could acquire the former No. 2 overall pick.
What could the Cavaliers offer for Ingram?
Rumors have been seemingly swirling forever that Cleveland would love to move on from the (arguably redundant) double-big situation it has with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley.
Mobley being the younger of the two centers with more upside, it would make sense for the Cavs to trade Allen if they were interested in splitting up the pair.
And with Cleveland being notably thin on the wing, it might be time for the Cavs to consider packaging Allen in a deal for an elite wing like Ingram.
Yes, such an idea comes with its risks. Ingram’s expiring contract means he might end up just being a rental. Then again, Cleveland is clearly a contender right now, meaning that making a trade to compete for a title this year might be prudent, even if creates questions about the next few seasons.
A two-player package of Allen and Caris LeVert would match up money-wise for Ingram.
It’s a steep price to pay, especially given LeVert’s substantial value. However, if the Cavs feel that Mobley is talented enough to hold down their frontcourt while Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland, and Ingram go wild offensively, this trade might be something to consider.
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