In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, the New Orleans Pelicans have made it clear that Brandon Ingram is central to their immediate future. While speculation about potential trades and lucrative contract extensions swirls, the Pelicans seem committed to keeping their star player on the roster.
A Complex Financial Picture
As things stand, Ingram is slated to make $36 million in the 2024-25 season. Although he is eligible for a hefty contract extension that could be worth up to $208 million over four years, the Pelicans have chosen not to extend this offer just yet. This delay is influenced by the new collective-bargaining agreement, which imposes considerable restrictions on teams with payrolls that exceed certain financial "aprons." Specifically, teams over the first apron of $178.1 million face limitations on taking back more salary in trades than they send out, and those exceeding the second apron of $188.9 million cannot aggregate multiple players' salaries in a trade.
David Griffin, Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Pelicans, succinctly explained the team's position. "I think from a relationship standpoint, we've been really clear we'd prefer Brandon stays with us and Brandon's been pretty clear he prefers to stay with us. At the same time, there is a financial reality to this... we’re committed to each other."
Navigating Market Realities
The Pelicans' cautious approach reflects not only their strategic priorities but also the realities of their market. "In some markets, you don't have to make any decisions: You get a max, and you get a max, and you get a max, and you hoard talent. We're not that market," Griffin noted.
While the team considers its financial constraints, it has also explored potential trade scenarios involving Ingram and a max extension with other teams. However, this remains speculative as both parties seem to prefer continuing their association, for now.
Challenges On and Off the Court
Maintaining a top-tier roster involves more than just financial maneuvering. The Pelicans have faced several on-court challenges as well. Ingram, who initially thrived by attempting 4.2 catch-and-shoot 3s per game and making 42% of them, has seen these attempts decline each year. Additionally, he hyperextended his left knee a few weeks before the end of the last regular season, adding to the team's injury woes.
The Pelicans were also impacted by Zion Williamson's season-ending injury during the play-in tournament. These setbacks forced Ingram into a more demanding role. Griffin commented, "Brandon went from not playing to, 'OK, now you have to carry us.' It was a really bad situation for Brandon."
Strategic Restructuring
Despite these difficulties, the Pelicans have made significant roster moves, acquiring Dejounte Murray in a trade with the Atlanta Hawks and letting Jonas Valanciunas go in free agency. The Murray trade also saw them part ways with Larry Nance Jr. To fill the gaps in their frontcourt, the Pelicans are banking on a combination of Daniel Theis, rookie Yves Missi, and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl.
Understanding that financial and market realities necessitate a unique approach, Griffin remarked, "So we gotta make choices, right?... we're going to have to do this in a really unique way. And I think we’re pretty committed to playing small."
A Balanced Perspective
The Pelicans acknowledge the challenges ahead but also see the strengths they possess. Griffin elaborated, "I understand that everybody looks at the situation and goes, 'They’re missing this, they’re missing that,' but we also have a lot of strengths that we want to lean into."
As the Pelicans navigate these complex dynamics, their commitment to Ingram is evident, yet balanced by the financial prudence needed to build a sustainable, competitive team. How this balance will manifest in the upcoming seasons remains a point of keen interest for fans and analysts alike.