The Toronto Raptors have made a major splash by landing Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans ahead of the NBA trade deadline. The move signals Toronto’s ambition to build a competitive roster around its young core, while the Pelicans shift toward long-term flexibility amid ongoing financial challenges. Here’s a detailed look at the trade and what it means for both teams.
Trade Details
Toronto Raptors receive:
- Brandon Ingram
New Orleans Pelicans receive:
- Bruce Brown Jr.
- Kelly Olynyk
- A first-round pick
- A second-round pick
This deal comes as no surprise, as Ingram had been the subject of trade rumors due to New Orleans’ financial concerns and his pending free agency. The Pelicans opted to trade him now rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency.
Why the Raptors Wanted Brandon Ingram
Toronto has been struggling this season with a disappointing 16-35 record, but the team’s future looks bright with players like Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and Gradey Dick. Adding a versatile scorer like Ingram gives the Raptors the offensive boost they need to become competitive again.
Brandon Ingram’s 2024-25 Season Stats (18 Games):
- 22.2 points per game
- 5.6 rebounds per game
- 5.2 assists per game
- 46.5% field goal percentage
- 37.4% 3-point shooting
- 85.5% free throw percentage
Despite missing significant time due to a sprained left ankle, Ingram has been a consistent scorer when healthy. His ability to create his own shot, hit from beyond the arc, and facilitate plays makes him a valuable addition to Toronto’s roster.
When Ingram returns, he’ll play a key role alongside Barnes and Barrett, giving the Raptors a dynamic offense with multiple scoring options. However, Toronto must carefully manage its payroll, as Ingram will demand a lucrative contract in free agency. The team already has substantial investments in Barnes, Barrett, and Quickley, so balancing their future salary commitments will be critical.
Why the Pelicans Traded Ingram
The Pelicans’ decision to move Ingram was driven by financial constraints and injuries that have plagued their season. Executive VP of basketball operations David Griffin acknowledged the team’s “economic realities” and the difficulty of retaining Ingram at the salary he would command.
Additionally, New Orleans’ season has been derailed by injuries to key players like Zion Williamson and Ingram. The team’s inability to see what a fully healthy lineup could achieve made it easier to part ways with the former All-Star.
What the Pelicans Gain from the Trade:
- Bruce Brown Jr.: A versatile guard/forward on an expiring contract who provides defensive toughness and energy.
- Kelly Olynyk: A veteran big man with a manageable salary who can stretch the floor and contribute off the bench.
- A first-round pick: Adds flexibility for either drafting a future star or using it in a trade to acquire proven talent.
- A second-round pick: Additional draft capital for the future.
The Pelicans have already made moves to reduce their luxury tax burden, such as trading Daniel Theis earlier this week. By acquiring Brown and Olynyk, they maintain flexibility and avoid long-term salary commitments while gaining valuable assets to retool their roster.
Grading the Trade
Raptors’ Perspective:
- Grade: A-
This is a bold move for Toronto, as they acquire a proven scorer in Ingram who can elevate their offense and complement their young core. However, the risk lies in his injury history and the financial challenge of re-signing him.
Pelicans’ Perspective:
- Grade: B+
Given the circumstances, New Orleans made the best of a difficult situation. They gained financial flexibility, draft assets, and two solid role players. However, losing a talent like Ingram is always tough, and the team will be left wondering what could have been if their core had stayed healthy.
Impact on Both Teams
Toronto Raptors:
The Raptors have taken a big step toward becoming a competitive team in the Eastern Conference. Ingram’s scoring and playmaking will give them a new dimension on offense, especially when paired with the development of Barnes, Barrett, and Quickley. But Toronto’s success will depend on Ingram’s health and the team’s ability to manage their long-term salary cap.
New Orleans Pelicans:
The Pelicans are clearly focused on reshaping their future while dealing with injuries and financial limitations. With Brown and Olynyk adding depth and a first-round pick in hand, New Orleans can continue building around Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray. However, it’s unfortunate that the team never got to see its full potential with a healthy core.
The Raptors’ acquisition of Brandon Ingram signals their intent to win now while developing their young talent. If Ingram can stay healthy and thrive in Toronto, the move could be a game-changer. On the other hand, the Pelicans are playing it safe, securing future assets and flexibility as they navigate through injuries and salary cap challenges.
Only time will tell which team comes out on top, but for now, both sides have reason to be optimistic.
