Thunder predicted the Pelicans All-Star acquisition to be a surprise blockbuster

The Oklahoma City Thunder are one of the few true contenders in the NBA, but they could look to add more talent before the trade deadline.

OKC may feel like it’s on the verge of the title, and another big move could solidify its chances at the outright win.

On Friday, Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey envisioned the Thunder facing Brandon Ingram of the New Orleans Pelicans. Bailey’s proposed deal would send Luguentz Dort, Aaron Wiggins, Ousmane Dieng and a first-rounder to New Orleans for Ingram.

“Like LaVine, Brandon Ingram has been dealing with trade rumors, fake merchandise and other reports for at least a year,” Bailey said.

“And after injuries contributed to the New Orleans Pelicans finishing last in the West, they should be even more motivated to turn these rumors into an actual deal.”

“At one point it felt almost inevitable that New Orleans would move Ingram at center, but rookie Yves Missi was better than expected. And after this first quarter of the season, the Pelicans probably shouldn’t consider any more win-now trades.”

“Even with CJ McCollum, Dejounte Murray, Herbert Jones and Trey Murphy III all recently added back into the rotation, it will be nearly impossible to make up enough ground to even make the play-in tournament.”

“Instead, New Orleans should look for forward-looking deals.”

“This gives the Pelicans a first-round pick that teams will be reluctant to give up if a player with an expiring contract seeks a raise next summer. It also gives them an intriguing 21-year-old wing who hasn’t been able to crack the Oklahoma City Thunder’s crowded rotation.”

“Luguentz Dort and Aaron Wiggins aren’t just salary boosters either. Assuming Zion Williamson returns this season, both would be a good fit with him and other versatile wing and forward defenders like Jones and Murphy.”

“For the Thunder, this deal may simply not be necessary. They’re already playing like a championship contender, and Dort’s perimeter defense is a big part of that.”

“But with Ingram, a former All-Star averaging 22.2 points, 5.2 assists and 2.4 three-pointers, they may be the favorite as a super sixth man, even in a league with the Boston Celtics.”

“This deal would likely force OKC to move Alex Caruso to Dort’s starting spot. This defense is important for the front five. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams would obviously take the other two guard and/or wing spots. And whenever Chet Holmgren is ready to return, he and Isaiah Hartenstein can play together on the front line.”

“That would allow Ingram to absolutely dominate the second unit as a scorer for a few months (hopefully ending in a championship).”

“If things go well, OKC could look to re-sign Ingram for less than the maximum. If he wanted out, the Thunder would be in a better position than most to let him walk. They would also be a contender in 2025/26.”

Should the Thunder make a call with New Orleans and get an Ingram deal in place? Keep in mind that Ingram’s contract is expiring.

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