Brandon Ingram Trade Rumors, Dejounte Murray, Zion's Talent Discussed by Trey Murphy

New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III was thrilled with the addition of point guard Dejounte Murray this offseason but knows the specter of a Brandon Ingram trade continues to linger this offseason.

"It's tough, and it's also a part of the business," Murphy said to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto. "Brandon's been unbelievable when it comes to being a role model, seeing how he works on a daily basis. He's always been there for me and coached me up. He does all the little things.

"I work out with him and spend time with him off the court. It's tough to potentially lose a brother like that, but it's part of the business, and sometimes it might be what's best for him."

Ingram has been a steady source of trade speculation as he approaches the last year of his contract. Now is the time for the Pelicans to either commit to the 26-year-old or decide he simply isn't a part of their long-term vision.

The 6'8" forward is also the best trade asset New Orleans has left after cashing in a lot of chips to land Murray from the Atlanta Hawks, an aggressive move that showed the team's ambition.

"It's great, especially because he brings a lot of offensive firepower to our team," Murphy said of the trade. "When you add a guy like that to a team, it's obviously going to be a lot better, so I'm happy to get him on our team."

Murphy is well aware, though, that the Pels' fortunes will rest squarely on the health of Zion Williamson.

"You get to see what a generational talent looks like with a healthy team. That's the biggest thing," he said to Scotto. "We've got to be healthy. That's always been our thing for my entire time in New Orleans. If we have a healthy team, I think we can make a deep run."

Williamson logged 70 appearances and averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.0 assists in 2023-24. New Orleans got swept in the first round in the playoffs, though, as the two-time All-Star was out due to a hamstring injury he suffered in the play-in tournament.

Calling the Pelicans a championship contender would be a stretch when they've yet to taste even the conference semifinals with their current core. But they could certainly challenge for the top six in the Western Conference if the stars align and Zion avoids the injuries that have followed him throughout his NBA career.