Pelicans News: Brandon Ingram Exit Imminent as Dejounte Murray Trade Threatens Financial Turmoil Under Major NBA Restriction

With the buzz around the NBA draft finally calming down, the focus has now shifted to the trade market. And the Pelicans have already begun moving the pieces as they made a blockbuster deal to acquire superstar guard Dejounte Murray from the Hawks. While the addition of Murray does make them a bigger threat in the West, it also threatens to put them in a sticky financial situation for the first time in franchise history. Now, to avoid this crisis, the Pelicans might have to let go of their star Forward Brandon Ingram.

Adding Murray to the roster, the Pelicans gave up Larry Nance Jr., Dyson Daniels, and two future first-round picks. But that was not enough to make room for Murray’s four-year $120 million contract, which will come into effect next season. Moreover, the Pelicans also took back more money in this trade than they sent out to Atlanta.

Because of this, the Pels are now hard capped at $178.7 million in the first apron and only have twelve players under contract. Moreover, the Murray trade also adds an extra $1.5 million load on the team in unlikely bonuses. With more roster spots to fill and only $2.6 million short of reaching the $171.3 million tax line, the Pelicans, for the first time, might have to pay luxury tax. So, a Brandon Ingram trade might be in order as he enters the final season of his five-year $158.25 million contract.

Set to make $36 million next season, Ingram and the Pelicans have reportedly not been able to agree on an extension, which could lead to him becoming an unrestricted free agent and switching teams. And it seems very likely to happen because it would save the Pelicans from paying luxury tax as they could shed BI’s massive salary for next season and sign another player at a much lower value.

Where could Brandon Ingram land this summer?

With Murray now in New Orleans, the Pelicans would be a scary team next season if they stick with their core of Zion, Ingram, and McCollum. But that will only be possible if they plan on paying luxury tax. In case the Pels move away from that strategy, Brandon Ingram has a lot of other suitors who might be interested in acquiring him in the open market. As per the reports, teams like the Kings and the Cavaliers have their eye on the 26YO superstar.

Even the Sixers seem to have Ingram as their backup target in case they are unable to sign Paul George. And by the looks of it, Daryl Morey’s interest in PG has significantly waned over time, as per insider Shams Charania. So, a push for Ingram could be on the cards. And Ingram could do serious damage wherever he goes because he is still an elite player entering his prime. Just last season, he averaged 20.8 points along with over five assists and five boards. With his length, shooting ability, and versatile skill set, Ingram would instantly make any team significantly better. So, he is likely to have a plethora of options in case the Pelicans decide to avoid the luxury tax and Ingram becomes a free agent.

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about the alleged Shaq and Kobe Lakers beef. Keep checking this space for more such updates.