Raptors Near Deal for Pelicans' Ingram, Negotiations Intensify

The Toronto Raptors are reportedly in advanced negotiations to acquire New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram ahead of the NBA trade deadline, with the Atlanta Hawks also competing for his services. Ingram, a former All-Star, is currently sidelined due to an ankle injury but has been averaging 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists this season. The Raptors' interest in Ingram is driven by President Masai Ujiri's desire to pair him with Scottie Barnes, although they are weighing the trade package and financial implications of re-signing him given his $36 million expiring contract. New Orleans has been prioritizing financial flexibility and recently cleared salary by trading Daniel Theis to avoid luxury tax penalties. While the Raptors and Hawks are engaged in discussions, it's unclear what additional assets Toronto may need to include in a potential deal. With less than 24 hours before the trade deadline, both teams are actively exploring options to finalize the trade.