The New Orleans Pelicans have firmly established their position on Brandon Ingram's future: he’s not going anywhere, at least not in the immediate future. Despite the possibility of an attractive contract extension lingering, the Pelicans have opted to wait.
Ingram, entering the 2024-25 season, is poised to earn a substantial $36 million. Yet intriguingly, the Pelicans have held off on offering him a contract extension that could reach up to $208 million over four years. This restraint, as Pelicans’ executive David Griffin explains, stems from financial realities and the team's strategic considerations.
Financial Realities and Strategic Calculations
Griffin elaborated, "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. At the same time, there is a financial reality to this... we’re committed to each other."
The recent modifications in the collective-bargaining agreement have also introduced additional complexities. Teams now face constraints on acquiring more salary than they dispense, especially if they surpass the first financial threshold of $178.1 million. For those exceeding the second threshold of $188.9 million, the regulations are even more stringent—they cannot combine multiple players' salaries in trades.
This context is crucial, as both the Pelicans and Ingram's representatives have explored potential trade scenarios involving a maximum extension with other teams. "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 noted, highlighting the unique financial landscape the Pelicans operate within.
On-Court Dynamics and Tactical Shifts
Beyond the financial considerations, on-court dynamics have perhaps influenced the Pelicans' cautious approach. Ingram's trajectory with the team has seen some fluctuations. He started with an impressive 4.2 catch-and-shoot 3-pointers per game, converting at a 42% rate. However, these attempts have seen a steady decline over the years. Moreover, Ingram's health has been a concern, highlighted by his hyperextended left knee late last season.
Compounding the situation was Zion Williamson's season-ending injury during the play-in tournament. The team's roster has also seen significant changes. The acquisition of Dejounte Murray from the Atlanta Hawks came at a cost, resulting in the loss of Larry Nance Jr. Additionally, the Pelicans opted not to retain Jonas Valanciunas in free agency.
This year, the Pelicans are banking on a combination of Daniel Theis, rookie Yves Missi, and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl to provide depth in the frontcourt. "Brandon went from not playing to, 'OK, now you have to carry us.' It was a really bad situation for Brandon," Griffin said, reflecting on Ingram's burden amid the team's injuries and roster changes.
A Unique Approach
The Pelicans’ strategy moving forward seems to be embracing a smaller lineup. "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 indicated.
Despite the external skepticism, Griffin remains optimistic about the team’s 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," he remarked.
As the new season approaches, the Pelicans' calculated patience and unique strategic approach will undoubtedly be tested. Ingram's future, the team's financial decisions, and their commitment to a smaller on-court lineup create a compelling narrative for the upcoming NBA season.