Pelicans: Here’s 14 things that defined Brandon Ingram’s first All-Star nod

4. Speaking of last season, his career was at risk a year ago due to a medical condition.

There was a lot that made Ingram’s time with the Los Angeles Lakers tenuous, but it took a really sad turn late last season just as the forward was picking up steam.

Averaging 20.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while shooting 51.5% from the floor in 26 games after the New Year, Ingram was starting to pick up steam for the Lakers, but it wasn’t an effort that lasted very long.

After lighting up the Phoenix Suns for 25 points and 7 rebounds on 10-of-19 shooting on Mar. 2, it became apparent that Ingram had played his last game for the Lakers, as their medical team then discovered blood clots in the third-year player’s shoulder.

While at the time it seemed that his career could be over, Ingram let the process play out and was eventually cleared to return to basketball activities after the season. Now, he’s playing in his first NBA All-Star Game.

5. Once a lost part of his game, Brandon Ingram is now one of the best in the league at getting to the line.

Standing 6’7″ with just 190 LBS on his rail-thin frame, Ingram has started to make opponents pay by knocking down his free throws as he draws contact on drives.

Hitting 86.2% of his free throws this season, Ingram ranks in the 87th percentile from the stripe. A season ago in Los Angeles, he shot just 67.7% from that territory, which ranked in the 9th percentile… that’s quite the improvement in just a year.

While he’s always been able to absorb contact, working extensively on his shooting form with Fred Vinson has allowed Ingram to thrive from the free-throw line.

6. Ingram’s scoring efficiency is captivating. He averages 121 points per 100 shot attempts, which is damn good.

Watching Brandon Ingram with the ball in his hands can be a blast, as his ability to score at all three levels makes him a constant threat with the ball in his hands.

Ranking in the 85th percentile among his position group, his 121 points per 100 shot attempts highlights what’s been an incredible scoring season for Brandon Ingram.

Much of the buzz around the league right now comes from the small-ball Houston Rockets, who’ve essentially cut any non-perimeter players from their lineups, which has forced the team to pick shooting over length.

However, Ingram is making mid-range jump shots look sexy in New Orleans, as he 41% shooting rate from that territory has proven effective. Further, his 40% rate on long midrange looks ranks in the 71st percentile.