Why The New Orleans Pelicans Do The Deal 

For the Pelicans, this isn’t about talent. It’s about fit. As constructed, this team has a lot of offense. On the other hand, they’re defensively limited.

That’s part of the equation here – Wiggins isn’t as dynamic an offensive player as Ingram, but he’s a better defender. 

Of course, the Pels won’t want to trade too far in the opposite direction. That’s why they’re also getting Clarkson here. He should make up for a decent portion of the offense they’ll be losing in Ingram. 

He also gives them some depth. That’s key for this unfortunately injury-prone group. The Pelicans won’t want to do this deal if they’re satisfied with the rest of their 2022-23 season. 

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans & Golden State Warriors Updates

On the other hand, if they’re not, they may need make some more substantial decisions this summer.