Potara Brandon Ingram has been an essential asset to the New Orleans Pelicans, especially during the 2023-2024 NBA season. Standing at 6'8" and weighing 190 pounds, he brings versatility to his position as a forward, combining scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. His regular-season performance saw him average 20.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, marking the third consecutive season where he averaged at least 20 points. This consistency solidified his reputation as one of the league's most reliable wing players.
However, Ingram's season wasn’t without fluctuations. While his shooting percentage from the field was impressive, averaging 49.2%, he struggled with consistency, having 18 games where he scored under 15 points. Despite those challenges, he still managed to register some notable high-scoring games, including two games where he scored 40 or more points. One of his standout performances occurred against the Toronto Raptors in early February, where he recorded 41 points on 16-of-21 shooting, along with six rebounds and nine assists.
Ingram also contributed from beyond the arc, shooting 35.5% from three-point range, making him a threat from all areas of the court. Though his free-throw shooting percentage dipped to 80.1% — his lowest in five seasons — he remained effective at getting to the line, demonstrating his ability to draw fouls and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Defensively, Ingram provided solid support with 0.8 steals and 0.6 blocks per game, showcasing his ability to contribute on both ends of the court. His versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions, a key trait in today’s NBA, where switching on defense is prevalent.
Despite a solid regular season, the playoffs were a different story. Ingram’s offensive output dropped significantly, averaging just 14.3 points per game on 34.5% shooting. This decline in production came as the Pelicans were swept in the first round of the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite these struggles, Ingram's overall contributions to the team were still noteworthy, particularly his playmaking and ability to create opportunities for his teammates, as evidenced by his 5.7 assists per game.
Ingram’s 2023-2024 campaign was marked by trade rumors, as his name circulated in various discussions. Entering the final year of his contract, speculation about his future with the Pelicans intensified. Nevertheless, Ingram’s skill set makes him one of the league's premier wings, and regardless of where he ends up, he has the tools to continue being a top scorer and playmaker.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of his key stats for the 2023-2024 season:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 64 |
| Points per Game | 20.8 |
| Rebounds per Game | 5.1 |
| Assists per Game | 5.7 |
| Steals per Game | 0.8 |
| Blocks per Game | 0.6 |
| Field Goal % | 49.2% |
| Three-Point % | 35.5% |
| Free Throw % | 80.1% |
| 40+ Point Games | 2 |
| Games Under 15 Pts | 18 |
| 3-Pointers per Game | 1.3 |
Brandon Ingram's combination of scoring ability, size, and playmaking continues to make him one of the league’s most dynamic players. While his shooting efficiency took a hit in the playoffs, his regular-season performance showed why he remains a key player for New Orleans. His 2024 season will be pivotal for both his career and the future of the Pelicans, especially considering the trade rumors surrounding him. Whether he stays or moves to a new team, Ingram’s all-around game ensures he will continue to be a standout player in the NBA.