‘Blockbuster’ Trade Proposal Sends Pelicans’ Brandon Ingram To Cavaliers

One NBA writer proposed that the Cleveland Cavaliers acquire Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans this summer. 

Fran Leiva of Fadeaway World proposed the following trade idea between the Cavaliers and Pelicans:

Potential Trade Offer For Brandon Ingram: Caris LeVert, Jarrett Allen, 2030 first-round pick swap

The Pelicans are expected to explore the trade market for Ingram this summer aggressively. 

Ingram averaged 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 5.7 assists for the Pelicans this season while shooting 49.2% from the field, 35.5% from beyond the arc and 80.1% from the free-throw line. He is eligible to sign an extension this offseason. 

“For the Cavaliers, acquiring Ingram would offer a significant boost in terms of scoring and wing playmaking,” Leiva wrote. “Pairing him with Donovan Mitchell could create a dynamic duo capable of elevating the team’s competitive edge in the Eastern Conference. The proposed trade would see the Cavs send LeVert and Allen, along with a future first-round pick swap, to the Pelicans. LeVert’s expiring contract and Allen’s defensive prowess could be attractive to New Orleans as they look to rebuild and manage financial commitments more effectively.

“Ingram’s ability to create his own shot and his performance when healthy suggest he could be the type of player who changes the complexion of a franchise. If Cleveland can manage his health effectively, this trade could be a pivotal move in their quest to solidify their roster around Mitchell and push deeper into the postseason. This strategic shift would aim to provide immediate help to the Cavs while offering the Pelicans a chance to reset with valuable assets and financial flexibility moving forward.”

Ingram is entering the final year of his contract. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Cavaliers, Philadelphia 76ers, Atlanta Hawks and Orlando Magic are potential trade suitors for Ingram. 

Ingram has career averages of 19.4 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.3 assists with the Los Angeles Lakers and Pelicans. He won the 2019-20 Most Improved Player of the Year Award with New Orleans.