Brandon Ingram’s $120M Extension: A New Era for Raptors

Brandon Ingram’s New Chapter with the Toronto Raptors: A Game-Changer for the Franchise

In a move that has sent ripples through the NBA, the Toronto Raptors have secured a major asset for their future. Brandon Ingram, the newly acquired star, has agreed to a three-year, $120 million contract extension with the Raptors. This deal, which includes a player option for the 2027-28 season, was confirmed by Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul and agents Shy Saee and Mike George to ESPN.

Ingram’s journey to Toronto began with a trade from the New Orleans Pelicans just last week. The Raptors wasted no time in ensuring that Ingram would be a long-term fixture in their lineup, effectively keeping him out of the free agency pool this summer. This extension is a testament to the mutual commitment between Ingram and the Raptors, as they aim to build a formidable team around him and other young talents like Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett.

Currently, Ingram is on the mend from a significant ankle sprain that has sidelined him since December 7. However, he is diligently working towards making a return in the second half of the season, which could be pivotal for the Raptors’ playoff aspirations.

Ingram’s tenure with the Pelicans spanned six seasons, during which he became a cornerstone of their offense. The trade that brought him to Toronto involved Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, a first-round pick, and a second-round pick. At 27, Ingram ranks fifth in career points in Pelicans history and has averaged 20 points per season six times, a feat he shares with Anthony Davis for the most in the team’s history.

For the Raptors, acquiring Ingram means adding a dynamic offensive option alongside Barnes, which has been a priority for the franchise’s front office. Ingram is one of only six NBA players to average 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in each of the past four seasons. His proficiency as a midrange shooter is well-documented, ranking just behind DeMar DeRozan for the most midrange shots made per game.

• Ingram ranks sixth-best among NBA players in made off-the-dribble jumpers per game.
• He is one of four players to make at least 1,000 2-point jumpers over the past six seasons, alongside DeRozan, Devin Booker, and Kevin Durant.

Ingram’s impact was immediate when he joined the Pelicans in the 2019-20 season, earning an NBA All-Star selection and winning the Most Improved Player of the Year award. His arrival in New Orleans was part of a blockbuster trade that sent Davis to the Lakers in June 2019.

As the Raptors look to the future, Ingram’s presence is expected to elevate their game, particularly in areas where they have struggled. According to Second Spectrum, the Raptors rank last in the NBA in made off-the-dribble jumpers per game this season. Ingram’s ability to create and convert these shots will be a significant boost to their offensive arsenal.

With Ingram now firmly in their plans, the Raptors are poised to make a strong push in the Eastern Conference. His scoring ability, combined with the young core of Barnes, Quickley, and Barrett, sets the stage for an exciting era in Toronto basketball.