Sources informed Moneyline's Tim MacMahon and Bobby Marks in late December that addressing a potential trade involving Brandon Ingram ahead of his upcoming free agency in 2025 is a significant priority for the New Orleans Pelicans front office. Multiple factors must be considered as discussions unfold. Firstly, the market dynamics for Ingram do not align with those expected for a 27-year-old player who has previously earned an All-Star appearance, as his current situation suggests he could still be with the Pelicans. Complicating matters is Ingram's impending free agency, with reports indicating he sought a four-year max extension projected to be worth $207.8 million. Teams interested in acquiring him must either be ready to commit to a similar financial package or hope that a constrained market influences him to accept a lesser offer.

Compounding this challenge is the fact that the 2024-25 regular season is well underway, and Ingram has not participated since December 7 due to a left ankle injury. If the Pelicans were hoping to garner a substantial return for Ingram, the current climate is far from ideal. Given these considerations, a proposed three-team trade scenario illustrates the complexities involved. In this scenario, the Chicago Bulls would receive Ingram, Wendell Moore Jr., and a less favorable second-round pick from either Brooklyn or Dallas. In contrast, the Detroit Pistons would acquire Torrey Craig and Zach LaVine, while the Pelicans would absorb additional assets.

The Bulls are likely to focus on establishing financial flexibility, particularly to ensure that their top-10 protected 2025 first-round pick owed to the San Antonio Spurs remains within their grasp. However, the front office's inconsistent decision-making history raises questions about their direction. Acquiring Ingram could serve multiple purposes, including freeing up the remaining two years and $95 million of LaVine's contract, thereby enhancing their lottery odds. While LaVine is having a more successful season from a performance standpoint, Ingram’s ongoing absence presents a dilemma, as he remains an appealing asset but would further reduce the effectiveness of an already limited Bulls rotation. The organization must evaluate their long-term perspective on Ingram, contemplating whether to view him as a potential cornerstone or simply as a means to alleviate salary cap pressure.