The Houston Rockets enter the 2024-25 NBA season shrouded in uncertainty. Last season, they showed promise, even vying for the final Play-In spot as the year wound down. While they ultimately fell short, the outlook for the upcoming season remains bright.
Despite missing their franchise cornerstone, Alperen Şengün, for a significant portion of the year, the team performed admirably.
With a young core, the Rockets are poised to ascend further. Şengün’s return, coupled with the development of Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr., has infused the team with optimism.
However, if the latest rumors hold any weight, the Rockets may be looking to accelerate their timeline. Instead of waiting to see how the team fares in Year 2 under head coach Ime Udoka, management appears eager to make a splash.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans, Houston Rockets Updates
This offseason, reports surfaced about a failed attempt to acquire Kevin Durant, with the Phoenix Suns holding firm despite Houston’s substantial offer. The message from the Rockets was clear: they are ready to compete again.
Though the current roster lacks the necessary components to be a serious contender in the ultra-competitive Western Conference, a blockbuster trade could shift the balance. While they missed out on Durant, the Rockets could pivot towards a similar player in Brandon Ingram.
What Could a Brandon Ingram Trade Look Like?
Houston’s vision for the future remains consistent. According to reports, the New Orleans Pelicans explored the possibility of a trade involving Ingram for Alperen Şengün.
However, given that Şengün, at just 21 years old, is coming off a season in which he posted career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, such a deal seems unlikely. Yet, if Houston is serious about contending now, a trade could still be on the horizon.
The Rockets possess a valuable asset in Steven Adams, whose skill set would be highly coveted in New Orleans. The Pelicans, following the departure of Jonas Valanciunas and Cody Zeller, and with Larry Nance Jr. now facilitating the Dejounte Murray trade, face a significant gap in their center rotation.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans, Houston Rockets Updates
While rookie Yves Missi shows potential, he needs time to develop, leaving the Pelicans in need of a more seasoned big man.
Adams, along with Dillon Brooks to balance salaries, could form the basis of a trade package. The Pelicans also have a surplus of draft picks, some from previous trades, and could offer two first-rounders in 2027, 2029, or 2031 to sweeten the deal. With limited leverage, New Orleans might find this offer difficult to refuse.
Brandon Ingram’s Situation in New Orleans
The idea of Brandon Ingram moving on from New Orleans has gained traction. Despite being a key player, Ingram has yet to reach an agreement with the Pelicans on a contract extension.
With the team already boasting a strong scoring lineup that includes CJ McCollum, Zion Williamson, and Dejounte Murray, Ingram’s presence could complicate the rotation.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans, Houston Rockets Updates
As a result, trade rumors have intensified, especially with the Pelicans’ leverage diminishing. In this context, the Rockets could potentially acquire Ingram at a lower cost than what would have been required for Durant.
A move like this could propel Houston back into the playoff conversation and solidify their place among the West’s top teams.
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