The offseason has been a rollercoaster ride for Brandon Ingram as the Pelicans had been searching for a potential suitor for him all summer. However, the offseason moves did not land the Pelicans star anywhere. So, there had been speculations going down the rumour mill about his future with the organization. It all seemed like just another rumour before Ingram did not attend the voluntary training camp of the Pelicans. The 27-year-old small forward even received a warning for his actions from the NBA community. Amid trade speculations, NBA Front Office podcast co-host Keith Smith asked Ingram to “be a little careful.”

However, Numbers On The Board Podcast host Kenny Beecham brought a little different perspective on it. Justifying Brandon’s choice, he stated from Ingram’s perspective, “I love y’all. Like y’all, my co-workers technically, y’all my homies too. My best friends and cousin, if we had a voluntary meeting, I’m not showing up in most cases.”

He connected the dots with the trade rumours regarding the small forward. “It’s different because you are trying to win a championship, and it’s higher stakes. That sh-t is irrelevant… Y’all have been trying to trade me for six months. Like y’all, I want to get paid, “ Beecham added in his perspective on the whole Brandon Ingram situation. And the host was right. In February this year, as per the Ringer’s anonymous NBA executive source, the Pelicans had already established a choice between Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram.

However, Kenny did not jump in on the demand of Brandon Ingram for a $200 million extension, as it is also a matter of eligibility for it. Well, he didn’t, but we can!

Why the Pelicans are ignoring Brandon Ingram’s plight for a maximum extension?

The Pelicans small forward is in free agency set to earn about $36 million this year on his five-year $158 million contract. As per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Brandon Ingram demanded for a maximum extension worth $200 million. But the Pelicans can’t give the same to him. Already, Ingram, C.J. McCollum, and Williamson are earning north of $33 million. Also, Jordan Hawkins, Herb Jones, and Trey Murphy III will be eligible for an extension after the 2025-26 season.

So, to avoid luxury tax, the Pelicans had a choice. However, it seems like they have chosen Williamson rather than Ingram. This is a rather controversial decision as the Duke star has not played a full season and continues to do so. Last season was his record high, where he played 70 games, averaging 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5 assists. On the other hand, Brandon Ingram played 64 games, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 boards and 5.7 assists.

So, ultimately, it came down to one who improved better last season. As the stats are speaking, Zion delivered better than Ingram for the Pelicans. And that might be the reason he is not eligible for the max extension, at least in the Pelicans’ eyes. What do you all think?

Before you go, remember to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Silas Demary Jr.