Most expect the New Orleans Pelicans to trade star forward Brandon Ingram this offseason in hopes of competing with a different core around former No. 1 pick Zion Williamson.
Numerous teams will pick up the phone to offer a package for Ingram, especially if they need scoring help. He averaged 20.8 points and 5.7 assists on 49.2% shooting in 64 games last season.
Here’s a look at four of Ingram’s top business partners:
1. Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers desperately need a third star to pair with former MVP Joel Embiid and point guard Tyrese Maxey, as the tandem struggled to get the team to Round 1 of the postseason. Embiid’s availability in the regular season often affects his playoff performance, which the Pelicans forward could help with. Ingram collapsed in New Orleans’ first-round series against the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder, but it wouldn’t have much of an impact if Embiid and Maxey performed to their potential. Ingram was one of the Pelicans’ top offensive weapons against the Thunder, while he would see similar matchups and volume to Tobias Harris in Philadelphia.
2. Houston Rockets
Houston is one of the most exciting young teams in the association, loaded with talent including Jalen Green, Fred VanVleet and Alpren Sengun. Adding the experienced Ingram to the roster could round out their core, pushing them into the top 6 spots in the West. It was reported Thursday that the Rockets rejected a deal to move Sengun to New Orleans., which is understandable considering the big man is coming off a career year. However, the Pelicans could be forced to accept a lower offer if they hope to prevent Ingram from leaving for free in free agency next year.
3. Atlanta Falcons
The Hawks front office has a heavy burden on their shoulders, as they have the No. 1 pick along with two desirable guards in Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. If they choose to remain loyal to their franchise player, trading Murray and Ingram could make a real difference after seeing Young’s failures with another star point guard. Not to mention, the Hawks are expected to draft a blue-chip player if they stay at No. 1. Allowing Young to control the ball with Ingram as a compliment could result in another deep playoff run similar to 2021.
4. New York Knicks
It’s a long shot, but the Knicks are always looking to accumulate star talent in the locker room. Jalen Brunson solidified himself as a superstar, and with the monumental amount of depth on the roster, a true No. 2 option is the only missing piece. Forwards OG Anunoby and Julius Randle are high praise, but they lack the offensive consistency to contribute at a high level on a nightly basis. Anunoby has a player option this offseason, meaning a sign-and-trade could make the trade workout much easier.