In the 2023-24 season, the New Orleans Pelicans finished with a record of 49-33, securing a playoff spot. Unfortunately, they were swept in the opening round by the Oklahoma City Thunder, marking the second time this has happened in the last three seasons.
During the offseason, starting center Jonas Valanciunas left the Pelicans to join the Wizards. There are rumors that SF Brandon Ingram, who has been with the team since last season, could also be on the move. Ingram is seeking a new contract, but the team is not willing to meet his demands. Recently, the Pelicans held a voluntary minicamp in California, with Ingram and Daniel Theis being the only players not in attendance. The uncertainty surrounding Ingram’s future with the team raises questions about his tenure.
Is Brandon Ingram’s Time with the Pelicans Over?
Brandon Ingram did not attend the Pelicans players’ week-long voluntary minicamp in California, per @WillGuillory
The minicamp included every player except Ingram and recent signee Daniel Theis.
The Pelicans expected Ingram to be present, but he never… pic.twitter.com/7bxRLlpWPl
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 5, 2024
According to The Athletic‘s Will Guillory, Brandon Ingram missed the minicamp held by Pelicans players in California earlier this summer. Ingram’s cryptic social media posts during the event have added uncertainty to his future with the team for the upcoming season.
The 2024-25 season will be Ingram’s sixth with the Pelicans, and it is also the final year of his current contract. Reports suggest that Ingram is seeking a substantial contract extension, but the Pelicans are hesitant to meet his demands. Trade rumors surrounding Ingram have surfaced, but finding a team willing to take on his contract has been challenging. The team faces tough decisions regarding Ingram’s future in New Orleans.
