The Golden State Warriors are reportedly unlikely to pursue New Orleans Pelicans star Brandon Ingram, despite their need for additional star power. According to NBC Sports Bay Area’s Monte Poole, while the Warriors are open to adding a player who can elevate them back into championship contention, they don’t view Ingram as the right fit.
Poole explained that the Warriors are no longer willing to risk their financial stability, trade valuable draft picks, or disrupt their roster unless the player is a consensus star. Ingram, who signed a five-year, $153 million contract, does not meet that threshold for the Warriors, and any chances of acquiring him are “minuscule.”
Ingram, the 2020 All-Star and second overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, has struggled with injuries throughout his career and has only made two playoff appearances without winning a series. His reputation for being injury-prone, having played fewer than 65 games in most seasons, likely contributes to the Warriors’ reluctance.
Despite this, former Warriors champion Nick Young defended Ingram, praising his scoring ability and expressing disbelief that the Pelicans would consider trading him. Ingram has consistently averaged over 20 points per game, but New Orleans’ roster depth may leave him without a prominent role.
While the Warriors need a strong second-in-command scorer, they are wary of Ingram’s potential drawbacks. Ingram himself may feel undervalued in New Orleans, as he hinted in a recent social media post. Although Golden State is not currently targeting him, the situation could change as the 2024-25 season progresses and the Warriors continue their quest to maximize the remaining years of Stephen Curry’s career.
The Warriors have also shown interest in other stars, such as Paul George and Lauri Markkanen, but have yet to strike a deal. If no better options arise, Ingram could remain available through the NBA trade deadline.
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