The Pelicans finding a trade for Brandon Ingram ahead of the Feb. 6th deadline has become their top priority. Extension talks between both sides have completely stalled out as a trade appears on the horizon soon.
The Pelicans are 5-28 this season and have been ravaged by injuries. This decision reflects their efforts to reshape the roster and potentially retool for the future.
Ingram’s situation with the Pelicans
Ingram’s one-time All-Star status and scoring ability make him an attractive piece for teams looking for immediate help. His contract year status might also push the Pelicans to act before he potentially becomes a free agent.
There is this sense that the Pelicans would not want to pay him what he could get on the open market. So that adds a little more to the urgency of trading for assets before he walks.
The Pelicans plans for the future
The trade market has been open for Brandon Ingram, with several teams inquiring about his availability. And the Pelicans have been cautious, reportedly keeping players like power forward Herb Jones, center Yves Missi, and small forward Trey Murphy III off-limits in trade discussions.
Their plan, it would appear, would be one of exploration—to utilize Ingram’s high profile in either an attempt to change the direction of the team or to bolster their current lineup with different talents. The trade deadline will be huge for New Orleans in determining their immediate future within the landscape of the NBA.
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