Brandon Ingram is possibly the most talented player the New Orleans Pelicans received in the Anthony Davis trade. He could make an All-Star season look almost effortless should he return to full form.
David Griffin had his choice of trade packages. The New Orleans Pelicans accepted the Lakers offer in large part due to the talents of Brandon Ingram. Before a blood clotting issue cut last season short, Ingram was on pace to post All-Star caliber numbers.
His first season in New Orleans could be his breakout season. David Griffin stated that Ingram provided the team with a “special opportunity in terms of fit. ” Ingram has “elite playmaker” potential and “defends multiple positions.”
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Ingram said he was finally able to control NBA games before his blot clotting issues were known. Ingram says that before the injury, he “was finally comfortable playing basketball and doing what I could do in the gym before the games. It came easy.”
That version of Ingram was an emerging All-NBA talent. Blood clots are a different issue than a structural break, fracture or tear. Still, regaining that ‘easy’ confidence is the last step to a full return to form.
Brandon Ingram is “close to getting back” to full-court activities. He has spent the offseason rehabbing after deep venous thrombosis surgery. Like Lonzo Ball, Ingram shows a willingness to play quicker but has also had injuries derail his career somewhat.
Ingram and Ball can rest easy knowing the New Orleans Pelicans will not rush them back too soon. Aaron Nelson and Griffin know that success cannot be rushed. They are not wanting things to happen quickly. They want the team to grow organically and want things to happen at the right time.
“Just eager to pick up a basketball period.” The last time he really got to play was back in March. He has kept true form with his rehab courses and hoping to resume five-on-five drills soon.
Josh Hart and Lonzo Ball have publically expressed their enthusiasm in lieu of the trade. Ingram has kept to himself through the summer. He did express his appreciation for Ball’s defensive efforts, telling the media ”
"Where he is on the defensive end. The anticipation, the passes, just being in the right place in the right time. That doesn’t show up on the stat sheet, but he’s there for deflections, always helping the teammates out at the right time.”"
Ingram said he enjoyed going back to Duke University for summer workouts and pick up games. The New Orleans Pelicans have plenty of Duke connections to help Ingram feel more comfortable. Ingram is a restricted free agent next summer.
The Pelicans have the perfect environment to convince Ingram this could be his home for the rest of his twenties. The Crescent City is perfect for those with easy confidence personalities.