The New Orleans Pelicans have drawn a firm line in the sand regarding the future of their star player Brandon Ingram. Over recent weeks, speculation has swirled around potential trade scenarios and contract extensions, but the team's front office remains steadfast: Brandon Ingram isn't going anywhere, at least not anytime soon.
Financial Stakes and Strategic Moves
Ingram, who is set to earn a hefty $36 million in the 2024-25 season, is eligible for a contract extension that could see him pocket up to $208 million over four years. Despite this, the Pelicans have opted not to offer Ingram this lucrative extension just yet. David Griffin, the Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations for the Pelicans, has been vocal about the team's financial strategy.
"I think from a relationship standpoint, we've been really clear we'd prefer Brandon stays with us, and Brandon's been pretty clear he prefers to stay with us," Griffin stated. "At the same time, there is a financial reality to this... we’re committed to each other."
Griffin's remarks underscore the balancing act that small-market teams like the Pelicans must perform. "In some markets, you don't have to make any decisions: You get a max, and you get a max, and you get a max, and you hoard talent. We're not that market," Griffin elaborated.
New Collective-Bargaining Agreement Implications
The new collective-bargaining agreement has introduced several constraints that complicate high-salary arrangements. Teams that exceed the first apron of $178.1 million face restrictions on taking back more salary than they send out. Those who surpass the second apron of $188.9 million find themselves unable to aggregate multiple players' salaries in a trade.
Both the Pelicans and Ingram's camp have explored potential trade scenarios involving a max extension with other teams. This openness to explore options further indicates the financial tightrope the Pelicans are walking.
"When you don't have to pay them, you want all of them. And then when you actually have to hand them $50 million a year, mechanically, it gets complicated," Griffin commented, encapsulating the intricacies of managing a modern NBA team within the financial limitations imposed by the league.
On-Court Performance and Health Challenges
Ingram's on-court performance has been a mix of highs and intermittent struggles. In his initial stint with the Pelicans, he averaged 4.2 catch-and-shoot 3s per game, sinking an impressive 42% of them. However, these attempts have steadily declined each year. Ingram also faced a significant setback last season, hyperextending his left knee a few weeks before the end of the regular season.
The Pelicans had their fair share of injury woes as well, with Zion Williamson suffering a season-ending ailment during the play-in tournament. The team's resilience was further tested with the loss of pivotal players in what Griffin admits was a strained situation for Ingram. "Brandon went from not playing to, 'OK, now you have to carry us.' It was a really bad situation for Brandon," Griffin acknowledged.
Roster Adjustments and Future Outlook
In a bid to bolster their lineup, the Pelicans made significant roster moves, acquiring Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks while letting go of Jonas Valanciunas in free agency. The team also saw Larry Nance Jr. leave as part of the Murray trade.
Looking to strengthen their frontcourt, the Pelicans are counting on a combination of Daniel Theis, rookie Yves Missi, and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl to step up. This reflects a broader strategy where the team plans to adapt and play to their unique strengths, even if it means departing from conventional approaches.
"So we gotta make choices, right?... we’re going to have to do this in a really unique way. And I think we’re pretty committed to playing small," Griffin pointed out. Despite the apparent gaps in the lineup, Griffin remains optimistic about their core strengths. "I understand that everybody looks at the situation and goes, 'They’re missing this, they’re missing that,' but we also have a lot of strengths that we want to lean into."
This cautious optimism and holistic approach reflect the careful planning and strategic flexibility that the Pelicans are relying on to navigate both financial constraints and on-court challenges in the coming seasons.