Brandon Ingram, who was part of prior rumors as a potential trading chip for Kevin Durant, is apparently not being placed on the table by the New Orleans Pelicans.
According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, sources say that the Pelicans aren’t making Ingram available amid reported interest of Nets on young, promising players from their several suitors.
Added by Scotto, the idea of going to the Big Easy doesn’t seem pleasing on the side of Durant either.
“Brooklyn wanted a package that could top the Rudy Gobert package that Utah got for him in the trade with Minnesota. To this point, that market has not materialized. There are some younger guys they’d be open to getting if they were going to move Kevin Durant. Scottie Barnes with Toronto, who has not been put on the table yet. You wondered if Brandon Ingram of the Pelicans could be a guy that’s put on the table? To this point, I’ve heard he’s not been put on the table. I also didn’t see Durant necessarily wanting to go to New Orleans as well.”
The lucky team that lands Durant will be blessed for four years of contract commitment and a solid championship shot with the future hall of famer. But this scenario pays an all-time asking price given to the Nets.
In this case, it looks like the Pelicans aren’t rushing things to contend, as they remain unwilling to shatter their talented young core. With Ingram, CJ McCollum and perhaps a healthy Zion Williamson taking lead control, NOLA stands imposing as a daunting team to face in the upcoming season.
As such, it may take a very long time for both Durant and the Nets to find their respective resolution. With almost two months having passed this offseason, plenty of murmurs and moves can still occur.
