The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly shopping Brandon Ingram (subscription required) and gearing up for a crucial summer. They will make moves and some may upset their fans. The Pels need to improve their roster and trading Ingram is just one piece of that puzzle.
New Orleans is also searching for a center upgrade. Jonas Valanciunas is unlikely to return, and the Pelicans want to improve their rim protection. Cody Zeller also heads into free agency, so the franchise needs to find a big man.
New Orleans may have found their Brandon Ingram suitor after Shams Charania dropped his latest rumor on June 20.
76ers odds of trading for Brandon Ingram improve if rumors are true
Daryl Morey and the Sixers want to add a third star to pair with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. The former MVP is the only player on their roster with a guaranteed contract for next season, and they have four first-round picks available to trade on draft night. Philly can make a monster offer around taking unwanted contracts and draft capital.
The Philadelphia 76ers' interest in pursuing Paul George has significantly waned in recent days, and the franchise is expected to be aggressive elsewhere with its salary cap flexibility and draft capital leading into next week’s NBA Draft, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 20, 2024
The 76ers are out on star free agents if they cannot land Paul George. LeBron James is not expected to leave Los Angeles, and James Harden is not returning to the City of Brotherly Love after his messy exit. There are several impactful role players available in free agency, but no stars.
Philadelphia wants a wing. They need someone who pairs well with Tyrese Maxey and can add some defensive versatility to their roster.
Pelicans and 76ers have discussed Brandon Ingram trade
New Orleans has an All-Star wing available that checks several boxes for the Sixers. He has scored 20-plus points per game for five straight years. Ingram can space the floor, make plays, and rebound. His defense is questionable, but Philly has Embiid patrolling the backline.
The two sides have discussed a trade, according to The Athletic’s Kelly Iko. There will be multiple bidders, but Ingram has just one year left on his contract. New Orleans will get more if they find a team willing to sign him long-term. That should be their goal in trading BI.
The Philadelphia 76ers will make a splashy move this offseason, and the odds of trading for Brandon Ingram increased significantly with the latest rumor. The New Orleans Pelicans All-Star is one of the best wings available. Do not be surprised to see Morey swoop in and finish this deal.