Following a dismal playoff performance, the New Orleans Pelicans are rumored to be aiming to trade Brandon Ingram this summer and focus on building around the triumvirate of Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy, and Herb Jones.
The Orlando Magic had been mentioned as the favorites to sign Ingram this offseason, barely ahead of the Atlanta Hawks. This appears to be based primarily on the Magic’s huge cap space and trade assets, as well as their expectation to be in the market for a marquee player this summer.
Since then, hypothetical trades involving Ingram to Orlando have been all over the internet.
Mock trade has Magic send out quite the haul for Pelicans star
Recently, Fadeaway World created the following mock trade for the Magic and Pelicans.
Magic receive: Brandon Ingram
Pelicans receive: Jonathan Isaac, Jalen Suggs, Mo Wagner, 2025 first-round pick, 2026 first-round pick
That is a significant haul for a man who is prone to injuries and was just swept and frightened by Lu Dort and his young Thunder teammates. So let’s take a closer look at the Magic’s fit.
Grade the trade
For the Pelicans, this acquisition appears quite promising, especially with the inclusion of draft picks and Jalen Suggs. Picture Suggs and Herb Jones teaming up defensively in the backcourt – it would present a daunting challenge for any opponent. Yet, relying on Jonathan Isaac’s health poses a risk. The Pelicans already have their hands full trying to maintain Zion Williamson’s health for a postseason run.
From the Magic’s viewpoint, there’s much to consider. Placing Brandon Ingram alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner could potentially elevate the team’s offense significantly. Ingram’s ability to create his own scoring opportunities could make him a dependable secondary scoring option, particularly in crucial moments, until Wagner refines his shooting skills further.
However, acquiring Ingram wouldn’t necessarily resolve the Magic’s primary issues. While it would add another offensive threat, it wouldn’t address their deficiencies in three-point shooting or playmaking, especially if it means parting ways with Jalen Suggs, a promising young player who has already demonstrated considerable two-way potential.
Suggs is still developing but has already showcased his ability to impact both ends of the court in the NBA. The Magic likely wouldn’t want to give up on his potential so early in his career, considering he’s become a linchpin of their defense and could play a significant role in any future success.
Moreover, trading away Jonathan Isaac and Mo Wagner would leave the Magic lacking in frontcourt depth. While Ingram is talented, his injury history and underwhelming performance in recent playoffs cast doubts on whether he’s the solution to the Magic’s problems or worth sacrificing Suggs for.
Furthermore, Ingram’s contract is set to expire after just one more season. Surrendering recent lottery picks, frontcourt depth, and draft picks for just a single year of Ingram seems excessive. The Magic have ample cap space to address their roster needs through free agency or smaller trades. There’s little justification for making such a substantial deal for Ingram at this point.
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