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As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Denver Nuggets are reportedly exploring options to bolster their roster, with New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram among the players on their radar. According to Ian Begley, the team is eyeing Ingram as they search for an additional scoring threat.

Begley tweeted, “The Athletic report on the Nuggets’ search for a scorer, I’ve heard Brandon Ingram is another player among the group on their radar. FWIW: the clearest pathway for Denver to make a trade for a big scorer with a significant salary would be to include Michael Porter Jr. in deal.”

Ingram, currently sidelined with an ankle injury, has continued to deliver solid performances this season, averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 33.1 minutes per game.

The 27-year-old is in the final year of a five-year, $158 million contract with New Orleans, which could make him an attractive trade target for teams looking to add scoring and playmaking.

For the Nuggets, acquiring Ingram would likely require significant roster adjustments. Michael Porter Jr., one of Denver’s key contributors, is seen as the most realistic trade piece in any potential deal for a high-profile player. Porter, who is averaging 18.5 points and 7.1 rebounds this season, offers value as a young forward with offensive upside.

Denver, currently fifth in the Western Conference with a 14-10 record, has been navigating a competitive playoff race. While reigning MVP Nikola Jokic remains the centerpiece of the team, the Nuggets have been seeking additional scoring options to complement their star player.

Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans find themselves in a challenging position. Injuries to key players, including Ingram and Zion Williamson, have derailed their season, leaving them at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a 5-22 record.

Reports suggest the Pelicans are open to exploring trade opportunities, excluding a few untouchable players like Herb Jones, Yves Missi, and Trey Murphy III.