According to NBA reporter Will Guillory of The Athletic, the Cleveland Cavaliers are hesitant to offer Brandon Ingram the maximum contract extension he is seeking. Ingram, who is entering the final year of his current contract with the New Orleans Pelicans, could potentially be traded if an agreement on an extension cannot be reached between him and the team.
Will Guillory notes that Jarrett Allen of the Cleveland Cavaliers remains a top target for the Pelicans, with ongoing interest spanning several years. The Cavaliers’ reluctance to meet Ingram’s salary expectations may complicate negotiations, despite efforts to avoid including Darius Garland in potential trade discussions to facilitate mutual agreement. League sources suggest Cleveland’s reservations about committing to Ingram at his desired salary level.
Ingram had a productive season with the Pelicans in 2023-24, averaging 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, shooting efficiently from the field, beyond the arc, and the free-throw line. However, the team faced a first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Brandon Ingram holds career averages of 19.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game, having played previously for the Los Angeles Lakers before joining the Pelicans in 2019 as part of the Anthony Davis trade. Despite winning the Most Improved Player Award in 2019-20, he has yet to experience playoff success with the Pelicans.
NBA insider Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reports that while the Cavaliers have expressed interest in acquiring Ingram, any potential trade scenario faces significant obstacles. Cleveland is unwilling to part with core players Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen, or Darius Garland, complicating efforts to align with New Orleans’ preferences.
Fischer highlights the Cavaliers’ admiration for Ingram’s skill set but underscores their commitment to maintaining their core group, particularly with Donovan Mitchell expected to sign a substantial contract extension. The Cavaliers’ reluctance to include Jarrett Allen in trade discussions further complicates the prospect of bringing Brandon Ingram to Cleveland.
In summary, while interest from the Cavaliers in Brandon Ingram is evident, securing a deal remains challenging due to financial considerations and Cleveland’s reluctance to disrupt their core roster. The situation underscores the delicate balance teams must navigate in pursuing trades while preserving team chemistry and financial stability.
