One NBA analyst suggested that the Houston Rockets should pursue Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans during the upcoming offseason. Zach Buckley, writing for Bleacher Report, put forward a trade proposal between the Rockets and the Pelicans:
Houston would trade Dillon Brooks, Tari Eason, Cam Whitmore, and the No. 3 draft pick to New Orleans in exchange for Brandon Ingram.
NBA insider Marc Stein has indicated that the Pelicans are likely to actively explore trading Ingram during the offseason. Ingram has one year remaining on his contract with a salary of $36 million for the next season.
Ingram, a former All-Star, had a solid season with the Pelicans, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 49.2% from the field, 35.5% from three-point range, and 80.1% from the free-throw line.
The Pelicans were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder, while the Rockets did not qualify for the postseason.
The Rockets hold the third overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, which they could potentially trade for a high-profile player. Buckley argues that acquiring Ingram could be a wise move for the Rockets, given his consistent scoring and shooting abilities over the past five seasons.
Although some Rockets fans might be hesitant about parting with young prospects and a high draft pick for Ingram, Buckley suggests that the move could be worthwhile if Houston can secure a commitment from Ingram or have strong indications of doing so before making the trade.
Ingram has career averages of 19.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, having played for both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Pelicans. He was also named the Most Improved Player for the 2019-2020 season.
