Lakers Rumors: Brandon Ingram Trade Not Being Pursued by LA Despite Insider Buzz

The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly aren't interested in a reunion with Brandon Ingram.

According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Lakers are "whispered often by scouts" as a trade destination for the New Orleans Pelicans forward but there isn't "any indication" that the team is actively looking to acquire him.

Los Angeles is focusing on frontcourt help as well as perimeter defense to assist stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis instead, per Fischer.

Ingram recently joined Klutch Sports Group after leaving Excel Sports Management, per ESPN's Shams Charania. Rich Paul, the CEO of Klutch Sports, also represents James and Davis.

After earning $36 million for the 2024-25 season, Ingram is slated to hit unrestricted free agency.

Fischer reported on Friday that the Pelicans looked to extend Ingram with an average value of $40 million on a new deal, but he was searching for more. Teams on the trade market weren't willing to match the forward's long-term contract demands, either.

The Cleveland Cavaliers, Sacramento Kings and Utah Jazz were all options to land Ingram over the offseason but a deal never materialized (via Fischer). With a lack of trade activity, the forward could choose a short-term contract in free agency.

Ingram has appeared in 17 of the Pelicans' first 23 games, averaging 23.2 points and 5.8 rebounds to go along with 5.3 assists per game on 46.8/37.2/84.9 shooting splits.

The former All-Star has shown that he can be an efficient scorer at all three levels, but his defense and durability have resulted in questions regarding his ability to lead a contending team. Ingram hasn't suited up in over 70 games since his rookie season on the Lakers in 2017.

Los Angeles may still be active ahead of the Feb. 6 trade deadline, but it doesn't seem as though Ingram is a target.