Countdown to Departure! Brandon Ingram, 26, Heading to the Spurs Next?

The ongoing tug-of-war between Brandon Ingram and the New Orleans Pelicans shows no signs of easing. Earlier reports indicated that the Pelicans were unwilling to offer Ingram a max contract of four years worth $208 million. Recently, The Athletic's Pelicans reporter, William Guillory, reported that Ingram's future with the team is highly uncertain. Guillory revealed that despite the Pelicans' public statements about wanting to retain Ingram, uncertainty began when the team made it clear to Ingram and his agent that they would not offer the max contract.

Both the Pelicans and Ingram are reluctant to enter training camp without a new contract, fearing it would be a major distraction. This means the Pelicans need to finalize a trade by the end of September. Guillory also noted that the Atlanta Hawks had previously shown interest in Ingram during trade discussions involving Dejounte Murray, but the Hawks, too, were unwilling to offer a max contract. As a result, Ingram's situation has remained stagnant since the Pelicans' season ended, suggesting that his days in a Pelicans uniform might be numbered.

Ingram's Performance and Decline

Last season, Ingram had his worst season with the Pelicans, playing in 64 games and averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game. His shooting percentages were 49.2% from the field, 35.5% from three-point range, and 80.1% from the free-throw line, resulting in a true shooting percentage of 57.8%. In an era where scorers' stats are increasingly impressive, Ingram's decline from 24.7 points per game the previous season to 20.8 points per game, ranking 34th in the league, is notable. His efficiency was also mediocre, with a true shooting percentage of 57.8%.

In the playoffs, Ingram's performance was even more concerning. In the series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Pelicans were swept, and Ingram failed to score more than 20 points in any game. He averaged 14.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 34.5% from the field and 25.0% from three-point range. In the decisive Game 4, Ingram had a particularly poor performance, scoring only 8 points on 2-of-14 shooting. After the game, Ingram himself admitted it was his worst game of the season.

The Uncertain Future

Every player experiences ups and downs, and Ingram is no exception. He is a talented player with excellent offensive skills, particularly in the mid-range. However, his inconsistent performance over the past year, including during the FIBA World Cup, has not convinced the Pelicans' management. Considering Ingram's performance and his attendance record in recent years, it is understandable why both the Pelicans and the Hawks are hesitant to offer a max contract.

There are a few possible outcomes for Ingram and the Pelicans:

1. Ingram compromises and signs a contract with the Pelicans for less than the max.
2. The Pelicans compromise and offer Ingram a max contract.
3. Both parties do not reach an agreement, and discussions are postponed to the 2024-2025 season or next summer.
4. Ingram is traded to another team.

Based on the current reports, if neither side is willing to enter training camp without a new contract, the most likely scenario is a trade. If Ingram is traded, who are the potential suitors?

Potential Suitors for Ingram

Previously, the Philadelphia 76ers and the Sacramento Kings showed interest in Ingram. However, the 76ers have since made significant roster improvements, and the Kings have acquired DeMar DeRozan, which has reduced their interest in Ingram. According to recent reports by American journalist Sam Amico, the San Antonio Spurs have emerged as potential suitors for Ingram.

The initial reaction to this news might be concern about potential conflicts between Chris Paul and Ingram, given their past tensions. However, the NBA has numerous examples of players with past conflicts becoming teammates. For instance, Paul George and Kelly Oubre Jr. had conflicts but will play together next season. Therefore, this potential issue should not be overemphasized.

If the Spurs are indeed interested, they have the assets to acquire Ingram. Should they secure him, the Spurs' lineup next season could include Chris Paul, Victor Wembanyama, Devin Vassell, Scottie Barnes, Ingram, Keldon Johnson, Jeremy Sochan, Zach Collins, Tre Jones, and Cason Wallace. This roster might not be championship-ready, but it has the potential to compete for a playoff spot.

The question remains: what are the Spurs willing to offer? Given their reluctance to offer a max contract, acquiring Ingram without a long-term commitment is risky. However, Ingram is a talented player, and for any team unwilling to offer a max contract, trading for him involves significant risk.

The Waiting Game

Negotiations for an Ingram trade are likely to continue for some time. In the worst-case scenario, both parties might have to start the new season without a new contract. If Ingram stays with the Pelicans, the team's roster remains strong, including Zion Williamson, Ingram, Dejounte Murray, Herbert Jones, Trey Murphy III, CJ McCollum, and Jose Alvarado. If fully healthy, this lineup has the potential to be competitive in the Western Conference.

Ultimately, money plays a crucial role in this situation. As the countdown to the new season continues, the future of Brandon Ingram with the Pelicans remains uncertain. Whether he stays or goes, the resolution of this standoff will significantly impact both Ingram's career and the Pelicans' prospects in the upcoming season.