CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - DECEMBER 02: Brandon Ingram #14 of the New Orleans Pelicans dribbles up the court against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at the United Center on December 02, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
According to reports by NBA insiders Marc Stein and Michael Scotto, the New Orleans Pelicans are likely to trade forward Brandon Ingram this summer to find a better complement to franchise star Zion Williamson. Ingram, 26, is seen as the Pelicans’ primary trade asset as he enters the final year of his five-year, $158 million contract signed in 2020.
During a recent discussion on Stiles & Watkins hosted by Allen Stiles and Chris Watkins, a hypothetical trade scenario involving Ingram going to the Sacramento Kings was analyzed. This potential deal stems from the Pelicans’ surplus of players like defensive wing Herb Jones and versatile threat Trey Murphy III, who are expected to see increased playing time in the upcoming season.
Jones, who signed a four-year, $53 million contract before the 2023-24 season, and Murphy, who will become a restricted free agent next summer, make Ingram somewhat dispensable for the Pelicans. Ingram, a former All-Star, posted impressive stats last season, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game.
With Jones and Murphy poised to take on starting roles, the Pelicans are exploring trading Ingram, especially considering he will be in the final year of his contract next season with a salary of $36 million.
The Sacramento Kings’ upcoming offseason date of interest is the NBA Draft, now a two-night event. On Wednesday, June 26th, the Kings will make their first-round selection (13th overall), followed by the second round on Thursday, June 27th, where they hold the 45th overall pick. The Kings’ last first-round pick was in 2022 when they chose Keegan Murray from Iowa with the fourth overall selection. For comprehensive coverage of the Kings’ draft activities, including player profiles, pre-draft workouts, and draft night updates, fans can rely on Sactown Sports.
