Brandon Ingram’s recent absence from the New Orleans Pelicans’ minicamp has further complicated his standing with the team, intensifying questions about his long-term future in New Orleans. Already seen as an odd fit due to the emergence of players like Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III, this latest development casts doubt on his commitment to the franchise. However, Ingram’s drop in trade value presents a unique opportunity for teams in need of a consistent scorer—especially the Golden State Warriors, who could capitalize on his current market.
The Time Is Perfect For The Warriors To Trade For Disgruntled Star
Ingram’s absence raises concerns about his dedication to the Pelicans, reinforcing the idea that he may not be part of their long-term plans. For teams interested in acquiring him, this situation presents an opportunity to negotiate a deal on favorable terms. This means the Pelicans may be “desperate” to move him. This would allow other teams to offer fewer assets for a player who under normal circumstances would command a high price due to his scoring ability and All-Star pedigree.
The Warriors are fresh off losing Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks. They are in need of a consistent 20-point scorer. Ingram fits that role perfectly. Throughout the 2023-24 NBA season, the Warriors often struggled to maintain offensive consistency when Stephen Curry was off the court or having an off-night. Curry remains the focal point of their offense. Still, they lack a secondary scorer who can create his own shot and keep the scoreboard ticking over. Ingram would fill that void.
What Wouls Brandon Ingram’s Role Be On The Warriors?
According to craftedNBA.com, Ingram’s offensive versatility stands out, particularly in isolation and mid-range scoring. The Warriors have historically relied on from their wing players (remember Kevin Durant?). Ingram averaged 20.8 points per game on 49.2% shooting during the 2023-24 season. He had solid production from the mid-range and three-point line. His isolation scoring ranks among the top in the league. Also, he has proven capable of taking over games offensively when necessary. The Pelicans’ system hasn’t maximized his talents alongside Zion Williamson. The Warriors’ ball movement-heavy offense could provide him with the perfect stage to flourish.
Golden State’s offense emphasizes off-ball movement, screens, and quick decision-making. While Ingram is known for his ball-dominant style, he has the skill set to adapt to this system. His ability to hit pull-up jumpers in the mid-range, as well as his improved playmaking (5.7 assists per game and a 2.28 assist-to-turnover ratio in 2023-24), would make him a natural fit next to Curry and Draymond Green. With Thompson gone, Ingram could provide much-needed secondary scoring. He also helps to take defensive attention away from Curry. His length and athleticism would also allow him to contribute defensively, though he would need to buy into the Warriors’ culture of effort on both ends.
An Opportunity For Brandon Ingram To Rebuild His Value
Additionally, Golden State’s player development system is known for getting the best out of its stars. This could help Ingram take his game to the next level. In New Orleans, the presence of Jones, a defensive stalwart, and Murphy III, a sharpshooter, created competition for wing minutes, leaving Ingram in an awkward spot. On the Warriors, he would likely be seen as a vital cog in their championship aspirations.
Ingram’s trade value is further diminished by the Pelicans‘ seeming desire to move him. Teams around the league know that the Pelicans may have to lower their asking price. This is especially true after the minicamp absence, signaling a rift between Ingram and the organization. This allows teams like the Warriors to negotiate from a position of strength. Golden State are often tight on future draft capital and young assets. They may be able to offer a more reasonable package to acquire Ingram.
The Last Word
Ultimately, Ingram’s situation with the Pelicans opens a window of opportunity for a team like the Warriors to strike. His skill set perfectly addresses Golden State’s scoring needs in the post-Thompson era. More importantly, his trade value has plummeted to a level where the Warriors could acquire him without mortgaging their future. For Golden State, this could be the ideal time to add a proven scorer. For Ingram, it could be the change of scenery he needs to unlock his full potential.
