The biggest hurdle in potential Brandon Ingram trade negotiations isn’t what most fans might expect. It’s not about his on-court performance or team chemistry issues. The real roadblock? The 2025-26 salary cap.
Next season, Trey Murphy’s salary jumps from $5 million to $25 million. This $20 million increase significantly impacts the Pelicans’ financial flexibility. With all expiring deals off the books, New Orleans would have $22.5 million in room below the luxury tax line for 2024-25. This tight situation makes acquiring high-salaried players in return for Ingram problematic.
Take the rumored Toronto deal involving RJ Barrett. His $27.7 million salary would push the Pelicans over the tax threshold by $5 million before filling out the roster. Even a lower-priced option like Bogdan Bogdanović from Atlanta at $17 million leaves little wiggle room.
The Golden State scenario with Andrew Wiggins is even more challenging. His $28.2 million would put New Orleans $6 million into the tax before addressing other roster needs.
This cap crunch explains why the Pelicans are seeking third-team involvement or expiring contracts in Ingram trade talks. It also sheds light on previous reports suggesting New Orleans couldn’t bring Ingram back at his current salary.
The front office faces a delicate balancing act. Trading Ingram for long-term salary could simply shift the tax problem from him to another player. Letting him walk in free agency provides more financial flexibility but loses a talented asset for nothing.
As the trade deadline approaches, these salary cap implications will continue to shape New Orleans’ decision-making process regarding Brandon Ingram’s future with the team.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Brandon Ingram trade situation, tune into the Locked On Pelicans podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pelicans Podcast:
• Examining the possibility of “blowing it up” for the Pelicans
• An update on Herb Jones’ status
