Ranking 8 Brandon Ingram suitors by best fit

4. Cleveland Cavaliers

All seems well in Cleveland. Kenny Atkinson's been hired as the new head coach, Donovan Mitchell has re-signed, and drafted wing Jaylon Tyson from the University of California with the twentieth overall pick. The initial reports out of Cleveland suggested Darius Garland and Jarrett Allen could be trade candidates following the Cavs' postseason elimination to the Boston Celtics in the second round. However, new reports suggest that Cleveland may be opting to stick with their 'Core Four'.

The Cavs reportedly have some level of interest in Brandon Ingram, and he would fill a major need for their roster. The Cavs have been decimated at their small forward position for years, relying on the likes of Isaac Okoro, Max Strus, Caris LeVert, Cedi Osman, Marcus Morris, Dean Wade, and others. The Cavs previously had Lauri Markkanen but traded him for Donovan Mitchell. While it's safe to say that trade has been a win-win for Utah, Cleveland, Markkanen, his departure gashed the Cavs

Ingram would present a different offensive dynamic for the Cavs. who have struggled putting points up over the last few seasons, finishing 20th in points per game (112.6) in 2023-24 and 25th (112.3) in 2022-23. However, the Cavs ranked seventh (110.2) in opponent points per game in 2023-24 and first (106.9) in opponent points per game in 2022-23. The story for Cleveland is straightforward: They need more offense. Ingram would rejuvenate their offense but hurt their overall team defense.

The Pelicans interest in moving Ingram to Cleveland would be Jarrett Allen. As one of the league's best rim protectors, Allen shot 63 percent from the field, adding nearly 17 points and 11 rebounds per game. The walking double-double is an underrated passer, and his improving mid-range shooting could be a deadly weapon next to Zion Williamson. For Ingram though, there's no place like home.