One suggestion from an NBA analyst proposes a trade between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Pelicans involving Karl-Anthony Towns and Brandon Ingram during the upcoming offseason.
Grant Hughes, writing for Bleacher Report, outlines the proposed trade as follows: The Pelicans would receive Karl-Anthony Towns from the Timberwolves in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Larry Nance Jr., and a 2027 first-round pick (via MIL).
The Pelicans, who were eliminated in the first round of this year’s playoffs, are reportedly looking to explore trade options for Ingram this offseason, as indicated by NBA insider Marc Stein.
Ingram, with one year remaining on his contract, posted impressive stats this season, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, while shooting efficiently from the field, beyond the arc, and the free-throw line.
Towns, or possibly Rudy Gobert, may need to be traded by the Timberwolves to avoid significant luxury tax expenses under the new CBA. Towns, known for his scoring and shooting ability as a center, posted solid numbers this season, averaging 21.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game
Hughes suggests that Ingram and Nance, both with expiring contracts in 2024-25, could provide valuable additions to the Timberwolves, especially addressing their offensive struggles. Ingram’s scoring ability and Nance’s defensive presence could complement the Timberwolves’ lineup.
On the other hand, Towns could potentially fill the floor-spacing role for the Pelicans, enhancing Zion Williamson’s playing style. While the Pelicans might face defensive challenges with Towns, they could benefit from his offensive capabilities.
Ingram, a former Most Improved Player of the Year, has impressive career averages, while Towns, a four-time All-Star, has also had a notable career since being drafted first overall in 2015.
Ingram is set to earn $36 million next season, while Towns will earn $49.4 million.