New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram did not attend the voluntary minicamp held by Pelicans players in California last week, according to sources cited by The Athletic’s William Guillory. Ingram, along with newly signed player Daniel Theis, was reportedly absent from the camp.
Pelicans officials had anticipated Ingram’s presence at the event, viewing it as a chance for him to practice with newly acquired point guard Dejounte Murray, Guillory noted. Ingram recently shared an Instagram post featuring a Houston-area pastor discussing the importance of not remaining in “environments where people don’t know the true value of you.”
Ingram, 27, is entering the final year of his five-year contract with the Pelicans. Following New Orleans’ sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the 2024 postseason, Ingram acknowledged his underwhelming performance throughout the season and committed to improving. He experienced his lowest statistical season with the Pelicans, averaging 20.8 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.1 rebounds, while shooting 49% from the field and 35% from beyond the arc.
Ingram and the Pelicans aim to keep the former All-Star in New Orleans. NBA insider Shams Charania reported on “The Pat McAfee Show” in early August that the team is interested in retaining Ingram.
However, the Pelicans are cautious about committing near-max money, as Ingram is seeking an extension worth $45 million to $50 million per year. The team has already committed to long-term extensions for Murray, Zion Williamson, and CJ McCollum, each earning at least $30 million per season. Additionally, sharpshooter Trey Murphy will be eligible for an extension as he approaches the final year of his rookie deal, becoming a restricted free agent next summer.
The Pelicans’ team training camp is set to take place from October 1-6 in Nashville, with the season opener scheduled for October 23 against the Chicago Bulls.
