3 stars the Portland Trail Blazers should consider in Damian Lillard trade talks

Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers, NBA Trade Rumors
NBA Analysis Network
Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Brandon Ingram

One of the teams mentioned as a possible landing spot for Damian Lillard is the New Orleans Pelicans to become running mates with Zion Williamson. While trading Lillard to an intra-conference team would sting, Portland would at least be able to target a budding star in the return package in Brandon Ingram.

Ingram has improved every season he has been in the league, turning into a legitimate two-way player. He has blossomed offensively as a go-to scorer that can put the ball in the basket from every level. 

The shooting woes people were worried about early in his career are gone, as he 46.3 percent of his shots overall, 38.6 percent from the 3-point line and 86.3 percent from the foul line with the Pelicans. The former Duke Blue Devil also brings some playmaking to the table offensively, something Portland could use if Lillard is moved. 

Defensively, Portland would welcome a player such as Brandon Ingram. They struggled to stop anyone and adding him on the wing with Norman Powell and Robert Covington would give the Trail Blazers a solid defensive trio.

READ MORE: Predictions for NBA Trade Rumors: Beal, Lillard, McCollum, Porzingis & Siakam

Brandon Ingram will be 24 in September and is locked in through the 2025 season, giving Portland a legitimate building block in a return package for Lillard.

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Kenneth Teape

Kenneth Teape is an NBA Reporter for NBA Analysis Network. He covers all things across the league, including both news and editorial work. Make sure to follow Kenneth on Twitter at @teapester725.

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