According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the New Orleans Pelicans want Brandon Ingram to take a pay cut to remain on their roster. This comes after both sides had yet to come to a contract agreement earlier in the offseason and regular season.

Before leaving Jeff Schwartz, Ingram’s demand was $50 million a season. While it is not public whether or not he wants higher or lower money, Ingram has since signed with Klutch Sports.

It is believed the 27-year-old will most likely be traded rather than reach an extension with New Orleans. This has been a possibility since last season’s trade deadline.

New Orleans is dealing with luxury issues and their biggest concerns, around $157 million. This is before factoring in a potential Ingram extension.

Ingram is in the final year of his five-year, $158 million. This season, he is making $36.0 million.

Pelicans Not Wanting To Give Brandon Ingram Max Extension

If the New Orleans Pelicans were to extend Brandon Ingram, it wouldn’t consist of a new four-year, $208.5 million contract.

According to Christian Clark of the New Orleans Times-Picayune, New Orleans has no intentions of giving Ingram a massive extension. With many speculating due to his inconsistent and questionable play in the last couple of months.

During last season’s trade deadline, teams inquired about the 26-year-old’s availability when he was put on the trade block. All signs have been pointing towards an official end to their relationship before this upcoming season.

If Ingram remains with the Pelicans for the upcoming season, this will be his final season with the team. In the summer of 2025, fans will see him become an unrestricted free agent.

Brandon Ingram Is The Likeliest One To Be Traded

According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, if anybody were to be traded from New Orleans, it would be Brandon Ingram. According to multiple reports, Ingram has had a playoff drought and flareup with head coach Willie Green.

Beyond the flareup and drought, he hasn’t shown New Orleans enough to get an extension. Ingram is entering the final year of his 5-year contract, as he’s owed $36 million.

It’s expected the Pelicans will be making noticeable changes to their roster in this upcoming off-season.