Toronto Raptors forward Brandon Ingram is now pain-free and cleared for full contact as he continues his recovery from a left ankle injury, Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković confirmed on Thursday. This clearance allows Ingram to fully participate in all summer training activities, preparing him for the upcoming <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA season.
Recovery Progress and Injury Background
Ingram suffered the ankle injury in December, which limited him to just 18 games last season while he played for the New Orleans Pelicans before being traded to Toronto. Before the injury, Ingram was averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. The Raptors acquired him while he was still injured and quickly secured him on a three-year, $120 million contract extension shortly after the trade.
Rehabilitation and Treatment Efforts
Following the injury, Ingram underwent extensive rehabilitation, including a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection to aid healing. This treatment, known to potentially accelerate recovery in tendon and muscle injuries, was aimed at helping Ingram rest and rehab properly in preparation for the Raptors’ summer program. Rajaković highlighted Ingram’s steady improvement, noting,
“He’s pain free, he’s moving well, he got stronger.”
He added,
“He’s in a really, really great spot. As of today, he’s cleared to play full-court, to be part of any runs… everything that you do during summer, he’s cleared for all of that.”
—Darko Rajaković, head coach
Upcoming Role and Team Dynamics
With his health restored, Ingram is on track to participate fully in the Raptors’ training camp, positioning him for his debut with the team next season. Should he maintain his fitness, he is expected to join key players like Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, and Jakob Poeltl in the starting lineup. This revamped core hopes to return Toronto to playoff contention after a four-year absence.
Implications for Raptors’ Future
Ingram’s readiness signals a significant boost for the Raptors, who have invested heavily in his talent despite the recent injury setback. His return could enhance the team’s scoring and playmaking capabilities, which are critical to improving their competitive standing in the NBA East. As the Raptors prepare for training camp, Ingram’s progress will be closely watched by fans and analysts eager for his impact on the season ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened with Brandon Ingram?
A. Impact Ingram was traded to the Raptors in February, just before the NBA trade deadline. Unfortunately, an ankle injury limited him to only 18 games this season. He didn’t get to play for Toronto in the 2024-25 season. The team hopes he’ll join their summer training.
Q. How many 40 point games has Brandon Ingram had?
A. Brandon Ingram has played 7 games where he scored over 40 points.