In a surprising move that could shake up the Eastern Conference, the Toronto Raptors have acquired star forward Brandon Ingram from the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for Bruce Brown and Kelly Olynyk. The trade, which is pending league approval, will also see the Raptors send a heavily protected first-round pick and a second-round pick to the Pelicans, according to multiple media reports.
The deal comes at a time when Ingram has been sidelined since early December due to an ankle injury. Despite his absence, the 26-year-old forward has been putting up impressive numbers this season, averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game over 18 contests. Once healthy, Ingram’s scoring ability and playmaking should provide a significant boost to the Raptors as they push for a playoff spot.
For the Pelicans, the trade marks yet another shakeup of their roster. Ingram, who has shown tremendous potential over the past few seasons, has not been able to stay fully healthy, which may have influenced New Orleans’ decision to move on from him. On the other hand, Toronto is betting on Ingram’s talent to help take them to the next level in the competitive East.
Bruce Brown, who was part of the trade, has had an eventful journey since signing a multiyear deal with the Indiana Pacers following the Denver Nuggets’ 2023 NBA championship. Brown’s time with the Raptors was brief, and now he heads to New Orleans as part of the trade package. Brown has been hampered by injuries this season, missing time after undergoing knee surgery in September. He has played 17 games this year, averaging 8.4 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His move to the Pelicans could help add depth to their roster, depending on his ability to stay healthy and regain form.
Kelly Olynyk, another player involved in the deal, has faced his own injury struggles this season. The veteran forward has appeared in 23 games for Toronto, averaging 7.0 points and 3.6 rebounds. Like Brown, Olynyk has shown flashes of his potential but has been inconsistent due to his injury issues.
The Raptors’ decision to trade for Ingram is a clear indication that they are looking to bolster their squad and make a push for the postseason. If Ingram can return to full health, he will undoubtedly add another dynamic to the Raptors’ offensive and defensive schemes. Fans in Toronto will be eager to see how this trade plays out, with the hope that Ingram’s return to the court will lead to a much-needed boost for the team.
Source: Swifteradio.com
