The New Orleans Pelicans traded All-Star forward Brandon Ingram to the Toronto Raptors at the 2025 trade deadline after a disappointing season. The controversial Brandon Ingram Raptors trade has drawn criticism from several NBA executives, who view the move as a desperate attempt by Toronto to salvage their roster.
Details Behind the Pelicans’ Decision to Trade Brandon Ingram
Following one of their franchise’s best seasons in 2023-24, where the Pelicans won 49 games but exited in the first playoff round against the Oklahoma City Thunder, New Orleans suffered a steep decline the following year. Faced with a poor season and an expiring contract for Ingram, alongside the emergence of Trey Murphy III as a promising wing player, the Pelicans decided to move on from their star forward.
At the trade deadline, Ingram was sent to the Raptors, who agreed to a three-year, $120 million contract extension with him, including a player option for the 2027-28 season. This deal was confirmed by Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul and Ingram’s agents Shy Saee and Mike George, signaling Toronto’s commitment to their new acquisition.
New Toronto Raptors star Brandon Ingram has agreed to a three-year, $120 million contract extension with the franchise, including a player option in 2027-28, Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul, agents Shy Saee and Mike George told me and @BobbyMarks42. pic.twitter.com/rN9D2qZW1c — Shams Charania
Criticism Emerges Over Toronto’s Acquisition Strategy
While initially seen as a promising move, the trade has faced backlash within basketball front offices. A report from TSN’s Josh Lewenberg revealed that at least one candidate interviewing for the Raptors’ president position described the deal as a “desperate Hail Mary.” The phrase suggests the trade was a last-ditch effort lacking long-term strategic planning.
External candidates for the Raptors GM position pushed back on the moves Masai Ujiri made, per @JLew1050 “One of them went as far as calling the Brandon Ingram trade a desperate hail mary.” pic.twitter.com/4mpk0awkfj — Fullcourtpass
This skepticism largely stems from the Raptors’ salary cap situation. Toronto will be spending over $104 million on three wing players: Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, and RJ Barrett in the upcoming season. With Barnes locked in through 2029-30 and Ingram newly extended, Barrett’s future with the team appears uncertain, as all three players cannot realistically share significant playing time effectively.
Roster Construction Poses Challenges for Toronto
The Raptors face a complex challenge integrating their expensive wings into a cohesive lineup. Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram each command substantial roles and contracts, making it difficult to optimize minutes for RJ Barrett, who might find himself squeezed out despite his talents. This overcrowding on the wings raises questions about Toronto’s long-term plan and team chemistry moving forward.
Pelicans Secure Their Future with Other Contract Moves
Meanwhile, the Pelicans have continued to reinforce their roster around younger talent, exemplified by their recent contract extension with forward Herb Jones. Jones signed a three-year, $68 million deal, adding to a total five-year commitment valued at $97 million, which includes a player option for the 2029-30 season. This move reflects New Orleans’ intention to build a sustainable core beyond Ingram.
New Orleans Pelicans forward Herb Jones has agreed to a three-year, $68 million contract extension with the franchise, Mark Bartelstein and Kieran Piller of @PrioritySports told ESPN. Jones now has a total five years and $97M on his Pelicans deal – with player option in 2029-30. pic.twitter.com/qXTvYT7Rym — Shams Charania
Potential Implications of the Controversial Trade
The Brandon Ingram Raptors trade controversy highlights the risks involved in aggressive roster moves driven by urgency rather than a clear strategic vision. If Toronto fails to integrate these key wings successfully, the trade could hinder their competitiveness and salary flexibility for years. Conversely, the Pelicans’ emphasis on youth and cap management may position them better for future success.
As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on how Ingram adapts to his new role with the Raptors and whether the front office’s gamble pays off or remains a cautionary tale of high-stakes decision-making in the NBA.