Rich Paul Reveals Key Insights on Brandon Ingram’s Trade to Raptors

The New Orleans Pelicans have officially traded All-Star forward Brandon Ingram to the Toronto Raptors, a move that surprised many in the basketball community. This trade, which took place in February, marks a significant shift for both teams, particularly as the Pelicans had been seeking to move Ingram for several years. The complexities surrounding this trade were highlighted by Ingram’s agent, Rich Paul of Klutch Sports, during a recent interview with Sirius XM.

Paul emphasized that the trade market for Ingram was not as robust as anticipated. He stated, “I felt like had he got to the open market there was not much opportunity there. So he’s making $40 million per year over the next three years. That probably wouldn’t have been there for him had we got to quote-unquote free agency.” This insight sheds light on the financial implications of Ingram’s departure and the Pelicans’ decision-making process.

Brandon Ingram’s Performance with the Pelicans

Ingram had a significant impact during his six-year tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans. He averaged 23.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, showcasing his skills with an impressive shooting line of 47/37/85. His most notable achievement came during the 2019-20 NBA season, when he earned an All-Star selection while averaging 23.8 points per game.

Despite his talent, Ingram’s potential for multiple All-Star appearances was hindered by the inconsistent health of his teammates, notably Zion Williamson. During his final season with the Pelicans, Ingram faced significant injury challenges, limiting him to just 18 games. This history of injuries ultimately influenced the Pelicans’ decision to trade him and reassess their roster.

The Pelicans’ Outlook After the Trade

As the 2024-25 NBA season commenced, the Pelicans appeared poised for a strong playoff run. The team added Dejounte Murray to a roster featuring talents like Williamson, CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and Jose Alvarado. However, injuries plagued the team, with key players sidelined for extended periods. Ingram’s absence intensified the pressure on Williamson, who has faced scrutiny regarding his conditioning and readiness to lead the team.

The Pelicans now find themselves at a crossroads. With the roster’s future uncertain, the organization must decide whether Williamson can step up as the franchise player. The team is prepared to make bold moves if he does not meet expectations, signaling a new chapter in Pelicans basketball.

As the situation evolves, all eyes will be on both Ingram and the Pelicans, assessing how this trade will shape the landscape of the NBA for the remainder of the season and beyond.