NBA Rumors: Warriors Discuss Brandon Ingram but 'Minor' Trades Expected to Clear Tax

The Golden State Warriors are reportedly interested in adding another scoring option alongside Stephen Curry.

Per Clutch Points' Brett Siegel, the Warriors' front office has "discussed" a trade for New Orleans Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram, though Golden State is more likely to make "minor moves" that could move it under the luxury tax.

"Unless the Dubs pursue Ingram, which has been a scenario this front office has discussed, league sources have indicated that Golden State will be making minor moves to potentially move out of the tax," Siegel wrote.

Ingram had a good start to the season, putting up 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists in 18 games, but he has not played since Dec. 7 because of a sprained ankle. The Athletic's William Guillory reported on Jan. 23 that Pelicans coach Willie Green said Ingram hasn't yet been cleared for contact drills.

Should the Warriors make a move for Ingram, they would have to do so with the understanding that his injury status is up in the air.

Another risk that comes with trading for Ingram is his impending free agency. The 27-year-old is set to hit the open market this offseason, meaning Golden State could only get him for half a season.

Considering the Warriors are far from being a championship contender, trading for Ingram might not be worth giving up players or picks for what could end up being a rental.

As Siegel noted, the Warriors could pivot to smaller trades that can help them save some money. Golden State is currently $5.987 million over the luxury tax, giving it an estimated tax bill of $15.173, per Spotrac.

It wouldn't take a seismic roster change to get the Warriors out of the tax, so that could be the easiest move for Golden State ahead of the deadline.

Of course, Golden State wants to maximize what will likely be the tail end of Stephen Curry's career in the coming years, and the Warriors can't do that without making a splash ahead of the trade deadline. Whether the Dubs are willing to go further over the luxury tax for a chance to make a run at the playoffs will be revealed in the coming days.