Pelicans Trade 2020 All-Star Forward to the Raptors

It was reported by Shams that 2020 all-star forward Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans to the Toronto Raptors for Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, a first and a second-round pick. Toronto has been in the process of rebuilding, and acquiring Ingram puts them a step forward. At 16-35, the Raptors are five and a half games out from the 10th seed. If luck is in their favor, this team could be a surprise team come the Play-In Tournament. For the Pelicans, will this begin the process of shipping Zion Williamson out of New Orleans?

With the Pelicans holding the last and final spot in the Western Conference, is this team going toward a full rebuild? However, the Raptors traded a first-round pick for an expiring contract in Ingram. Is there a chance the 2020 all-star signs or will he leave in free agency to join a contender? Ingram has just played in 18 games this season. He’s been out since December 7th with a sprained left ankle. In 33 minutes a game, the 2020 all-star is averaging about 22 points, six rebounds, five assists, a steal, and a block a game.

This trade will continue to sink the Pelicans to the bottom of the sea. There’s no looking back after this one, as they eye the first pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Even the Raptors must be nervous. They must rely on Ingram’s commitment to signing back and making this franchise is a favorable destination for the 2020 all-star. It will be interesting to see if Ingram will return to help this team play past mid-April.