Brandon Ingram’s NBA career started with unmet expectations, LA drama, and major health concerns. Ingram was included in the package that sent Anthony Davis to the Lakers and brought a group of young players and draft picks to New Orleans. There were many concerns about Ingram coming into this season because he had recently underwent surgery for deep vein thrombosis in his arm. His journey back from this surgery was not an easy one by any means, but Ingram’s dedication and work ethic is finally paying off in a big way.
Through 28 games this season, Ingram is averaging 25.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game on an efficient 48.9% shooting. With the Pelicans second to last in the West and Zion Williamson, the team’s prize possession, still out with an injury, Ingram has been the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season. Coming to New Orleans, Ingram saw his usage rate increase from 23.2% to 29% and his shot attempts increase from 14 per game to 18.4 per game as he was thrust into the role of the primary scorer. But Ingram is also being smarter with his shots. In his early seasons, Ingram often settled for inefficient mid-range jumpers and seemed uncomfortable with the NBA three point range. This season, Ingram is taking four more three point shots per game and is making them at an 8% higher rate. Not only is Ingram scoring the ball better, but he is doing so at a much more efficient rate. Ingrams PER in his early seasons hovered around 13, below the league average. This season, Ingram is currently at 21.6. While the mid range is still a prominent part of Ingram’s forte, his improvement as a three point shooter fits well with the modern NBA.
Ingram finally looks like the star he has always had the potential to be. With his length, frame, instincts, and skillset, Ingram is the ideal scoring wing and even draws many similarities to superstar Kevin Durant. Ingram has had lots of critics in his young career, but I am not too surprised by his rise to stardom. Even during his time in LA, Ingram showed glimpses of the star he is turning out to be. At the beginning of last season, Ingram (along with many teammates) struggled to adjust to LeBron’s arrival. In the first part of the season, Ingram put up decent numbers, but not a huge step up from his averages the season prior. But after the All Star break, Ingram went on a rampant six game stretch before his season was ended by injury. Albeit a small sample size, Ingram averaged 27.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists over these six games. This stretch gave a glimpse into Ingram’s full potential and what he can do given an opportunity. Despite an offseason full of rehab and recovery, Ingram has continued his rise to stardom and is getting a chance to show off just how great he can be.
The trade to New Orleans was just what Brandon Ingram needed. As the go-to-guy on offense, Ingram is able to play freely and has expanded his game because of it. All in all, Ingram looks so much more comfortable and mature out there on the court. He has even increased his free throw percentage by 17%. While the Pelican’s season hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows, at least they know they have a star in Ingram. Brandon Ingram’s breakout season truly shows what can happen when preparation meets opportunity.