3 Pelicans that earned untouchable status, 3 that should be cut loose

Cut loose: Brandon Ingram

Ingram has averaged over 20 points per game in all five years since arriving in New Orleans from the Lakers in the Anthony Davis trade. He is an elite offensive weapon, but there are defensive issues. Ingram is an All-Star just entering his prime, but does he impact winning?

In five years, the Pelicans are 144-143 with him in the lineup. They were 38-26 this season, but that winning percentage would have only moved them up to seventh in the West. Ingram has injury questions too. His 64 games this season were his highest total since his rookie campaign in 2017.

The rumors are gaining momentum, and the Pelicans are likely to trade BI this summer. He is entering the final year of his contract, and the franchise does not want to give him a maximum extension. It is the time to move on and build around Zion Williamson.

What will the New Orleans Pelicans get for Brandon Ingram? What other players are traded this offseason? Does it make the Pels a true contender next season? There are plenty of questions to be answered in the coming months. David Griffin’s job is on the line, so stay tuned to see what the franchise can do.