5 Players the Magic should target over Klay Thompson this offseason
By Tyler Watts
2. Brandon Ingram
The Pelicans star is already popping up in trade rumors, and the playoffs are still in full swing. New Orleans must make changes, and Ingram could have a new address to start the 2024-25 campaign.
The 26-year-old is just entering his prime and has scored over 20 points per game for five straight years. He is an elite bucket getter who averaged 5.7 assists per game this season. Over the last five years, Ingram has made 37.2 percent of his 3-point attempts. The 6’8 forward would give the Magic the elite offensive weapon they need and could allow them to play a supersized lineup that creates matchup issues.
Ingram’s playmaking makes acquiring him over Klay Thompson a no-brainer. The Magic would have to trade for BI. He is set to make $36.0 million next season in the final year of his contract. Orlando must make sure he is willing to sign a long-term deal, but it could help both parties reach a new level.
If the Orlando Magic do not want to trade for a star wing, they could look to sign one in free agency. Winning the bidding war won’t be easy, but moving from the West back to the Eastern Conference may appeal to this nine-time All-Star.