Cleveland Cavaliers, Pelicans Connected To Blockbuster Trade

Rumors Swirl About Potential Deal Involving Brandon Ingram

The Cleveland Cavaliers and New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly engaged in trade talks that could send Brandon Ingram to the Cavs, according to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. The potential deal would reunite Ingram with his former teammate, Darius Garland, and give the Cavaliers a dynamic backcourt duo.

Ingram's Fit In Cleveland

Ingram, a three-time All-Star, would be a significant addition to the Cavaliers, who are looking to take the next step after reaching the play-in tournament last season. Ingram is a versatile wing who can score, rebound, and defend. He would provide the Cavs with a much-needed secondary scorer behind Garland and help take some of the pressure off of Donovan Mitchell.

Pelicans' Motivation

The Pelicans, meanwhile, are reportedly motivated to move Ingram in order to clear cap space and acquire more draft picks. Ingram is set to earn $33.6 million next season, and the Pelicans are looking to shed salary in order to pursue other free agents.

Potential Compensation

Wojnarowski reports that the Pelicans are seeking a package of young players and draft picks in exchange for Ingram. The Cavaliers could potentially offer a package that includes Isaac Okoro, Caris LeVert, and multiple first-round picks.

Impact On Other Teams

A trade between the Cavaliers and Pelicans could have a significant impact on the Eastern and Western Conferences. The Cavs would become a contender in the East, while the Pelicans would likely fall out of the playoff picture in the West.

Timeline

The trade deadline is February 9th, so any deal between the Cavaliers and Pelicans would need to be completed by then. However, it's possible that the two teams could agree to a trade in principle before the deadline and then finalize the details later.