The 2025 NBA trade deadline brought significant movement, with one of the biggest trades centering around the New Orleans Pelicans and the Toronto Raptors. Live coverage shows the ongoing drama.
As the New Orleans Pelicans navigated a tough season, questions arose about their future roster plans. The team was unable to settle on a long-term vision with Brandon Ingram, one of their top players. Now, a swap has occurred—Ingram is moving to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Bruce Brown Jr, Kelly Olynyk, a first-round pick, and a second-round pick.
Brandon Ingram is headed to Toronto in a deal that will bring the Pelicans Bruce Brown Jr., Kelly Olynyk and multiple draft picks, source confirmed.
Pels make a big deal with their former All-Star.
— Will Guillory (@WillGuillory) February 6, 2025
The Raptors’ new acquisition adds depth to their wing group, which includes Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, Gradey Dick, and Ochai Agbaji. While they will need to address Ingram’s future contract, this deal could offer a significant boost for their push into the Play-In Tournament in the Eastern Conference.
Raptors Acquiring Brandon Ingram
Ingram, a former All-Star known for his scoring potential, joins a lineup heavy on versatile forwards. His presence alongside Barnes and Barrett could create dynamic opportunities on both ends of the floor. The Raptors aim to climb the standings, currently 5.5 games behind the Chicago Bulls for the 10th seed.
However, Ingram’s health remains a concern. Since his rookie season, he has yet to play a full 70-game regular season due to injuries. This unpredictability poses a risk but also offers potential upside if he remains healthy.
In the short term, Ingram’s recent form has been encouraging. Over his first 18 games of the season, he averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists, shooting a respectable 46.5% from the field, 37.4% from beyond the arc, and 85.5% from the free-throw line.
Pelicans’ New Assets: Bruce Brown Jr., Kelly Olynyk, Draft Picks
For the Pelicans, this trade marks a fresh start. It provides immediate depth with Bruce Brown Jr, a versatile role player, and Kelly Olynyk, a solid backup big man. The draft picks offer long-term flexibility, adding to the team’s already substantial draft capital.
The Atlanta Hawks had also shown interest in Ingram, boosting the Pelicans’ bargaining power. Acquiring these assets represents a competitive offer in light of the limited interest in Ingram throughout the past year.
The Pelicans are currently at the bottom of the Western Conference, with injuries further complicating their situation. Dejounte Murray’s Achilles tendon rupture exacerbates their depth issues, making roster adjustments crucial.
While the trade seems beneficial given the circumstances, it hinges on the Raptors’ ability to secure Ingram’s future commitment. The Raptors’ growing roster demands significant financial resources, and Ingram’s fit will play a crucial role in their playoff aspirations.
Trade Impact and Future Considerations
For the Raptors, the addition of Ingram strengthens their forward corps, offering flexibility in lineup constructions. The combination of these players can create multiple lineup options, aligning with the Raptors’ strategic focus.
The Pelicans, meanwhile, have gained valuable assets to bolster their future plans. The draft picks provide the team with essential resources, while Brown and Olynyk offer immediate contributions. This trade can potentially help stabilize a team dealing with significant on-court challenges.
In conclusion, both the Pelicans and Raptors stand to benefit from this deal. For Toronto, it represents a step towards playoffs contention. For New Orleans, it signals a shift towards rebuilding the team’s future core.
Both trades convey strategic decisions by their respective teams, influenced by performance and future plans. As the NBA season unfolds, the impact of these decisions will be closely watched.
(Photo of Brandon Ingram: John E. Sokolowski / USA Today Sports)
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