Brandon Ingram has found himself at the center of trade rumors this offseason as the New Orleans Pelicans explore ways to reshape their roster. With Ingram entering the final year of his contract and the Pelicans looking to prioritize younger talent like Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III, his availability has caught the attention of several teams.
Among the most interested are the Sacramento Kings, who are reportedly in hot pursuit of the talented forward. Fresh off a busy offseason that included signing DeMar DeRozan in a sign-and-trade, the Kings are not done yet. Adding Ingram to a core that already features De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, and Malik Monk could transform Sacramento into a legitimate contender in the Western Conference. As the Kings aim to build on their recent success, this potential trade could be the move that propels them to the top.
Trade Proposal
Kings receive: Brandon Ingram
Pelicans receive: Huerter, Trey Lyles, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2028 First-Round Pick, 2027 Second-Round Pick
The Kings Would Have A Monster Lineup
Imagine a starting lineup featuring De’Aaron Fox, DeMar DeRozan, Brandon Ingram, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis. That’s a formidable group that would instantly make the Sacramento Kings one of the most dangerous teams in the Western Conference. With Malik Monk coming off the bench as the sixth man, the Kings would have a perfect blend of playmaking, scoring, and defensive versatility.
Adding Ingram to this lineup would elevate the Kings’ offensive firepower to another level. Fox is coming off a career year in 2023 where he led the Kings to their first playoff appearance in years, showing he can be the leader of a contending team, even as they lost in the Play-In last season. DeRozan, known for his mid-range prowess and clutch scoring, would take pressure off Ingram and Fox, allowing them to focus on their strengths. Murray, entering his third season, continues to develop into a solid two-way player, and Sabonis is the versatile big man who can facilitate, score, and rebound at a high level.
This offseason, the Kings have been active in reshaping their roster. The acquisition of DeRozan in a sign-and-trade deal with the Chicago Bulls is a significant move that demonstrates Sacramento’s commitment to winning now. DeRozan averaged 24.0 points per game last season, proving he still has plenty left in the tank. Adding Ingram would only enhance the Kings’ depth and versatility, giving them multiple scoring options and playmakers on the floor at all times.
Ingram, who averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game in 2024, would fit seamlessly into Sacramento’s system. His ability to create his own shot, as well as facilitate for others, makes him a perfect complement to Fox’s speed and Sabonis’ playmaking from the high post. Ingram’s length and defensive potential also add another layer to a Kings team that is looking to improve on that end of the floor.
The Kings’ front office has made it clear that they are all-in on building a team that can compete at the highest level. After years of being a lottery team, Sacramento is now a legitimate playoff contender with the potential to make a deep run. The addition of Ingram would not only solidify their starting five but also give them the star power needed to compete with the elite teams in the West.
This potential trade shows the Kings’ willingness to sacrifice future assets for immediate success. The inclusion of Kevin Huerter and Trey Lyles in the deal, along with multiple first-round picks, indicates that Sacramento is focused on maximizing their current window of opportunity. Huerter and Lyles have been solid contributors, but the chance to add a player of Ingram’s caliber is too good to pass up.
As for Ingram, he would benefit from a fresh start in Sacramento, where he could play a pivotal role in a team that is on the rise. Under head coach Mike Brown, known for his defensive schemes, Ingram could also elevate his game on the defensive end, making the Kings a more well-rounded team.
This trade would deserve an A- for the Kings. While they are giving up valuable assets, the immediate impact of adding Ingram to an already talented lineup could make them a serious threat in the Western Conference. The risk lies in Ingram’s expiring contract, but if Sacramento can convince him to stay long-term, this deal could be the one that finally brings sustained success to the Kings franchise.
Grade: A-
The Pelicans Could Make Another Blockbuster Move After This
Brandon Ingram’s contract situation has put the New Orleans Pelicans in a delicate position. As he enters the final year of his five-year, $158 million contract, the team faces a tough decision: either extend him or consider trading him before potentially losing him in free agency. With the recent acquisition of Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks, the Pelicans have already shown their willingness to make bold moves to improve their roster.
Trading Ingram could provide the Pelicans with the flexibility to make yet another blockbuster move. With Murray now in the fold, New Orleans could leverage the draft picks they acquire from an Ingram trade to pursue another All-Star-caliber player who better fits their long-term vision. This strategy would mirror the approach taken by other teams that have successfully flipped star players for assets, only to reinvest those assets in another major trade.
The Pelicans are clearly in win-now mode, especially with Zion Williamson at the center of their future plans. By moving Ingram, they could add players who complement Zion and Murray while also maintaining a strong defensive identity. This would allow them to maximize their chances of climbing the Western Conference standings and making a deep playoff run. Given the competitive nature of the West, adding another star through a trade could be the key to the Pelicans’ success.
Additionally, the financial aspect of the situation cannot be overlooked. Trading Ingram, before his contract expires, would help the Pelicans manage their cap space more effectively. With Murray’s contract already on the books, and the possibility of signing or trading for another star, managing the salary cap becomes crucial. The Pelicans have historically been careful with their finances, and avoiding the luxury tax could play a role in their decision-making process.
Ultimately, the potential departure of Ingram could signal a new direction for the Pelicans, one that is more aligned with their current core. While losing Ingram would be a significant change, the opportunity to bring in another impactful player could make this a calculated and smart move for the franchise.
This trade scenario earns a B+ for the Pelicans. Trading Ingram might be necessary to maintain financial flexibility and to potentially add another All-Star to the roster. While there are risks involved, especially if the Pelicans struggle to find the right trade partner, the potential payoff could be significant, helping them build a more balanced and competitive team around Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray.
Grade: B+
