In what could be one of the most shocking trade scenarios in recent NBA history, rumors are swirling about the possibility of the Golden State Warriors landing New Orleans Pelicans star Brandon Ingram to pair alongside Stephen Curry. The move could instantly transform the Warriors into the overwhelming favorites for the NBA championship and create one of the most dynamic duos the league has ever seen.
The Epic Trade Scenario: Ingram to Golden State?
The trade speculation began as reports emerged that the Warriors are exploring potential deals to bolster their roster and add another star to complement Curry’s brilliance. With the team’s current core aging and facing fierce competition in a stacked Western Conference, acquiring a young, versatile star like Ingram could be the perfect solution.
The proposed deal would likely involve the Warriors parting with several key assets, including young players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, draft picks, and potentially even veteran contributors like Andrew Wiggins or Kevon Looney. While it’s a steep price, landing Ingram—an All-Star and one of the most talented scorers in the league—would be worth the cost.
Ingram’s Fit with Curry: A Perfect Match?
Brandon Ingram is a 6’8″ wing with the ability to score from all three levels, making him an ideal complement to Curry’s perimeter shooting and playmaking. Ingram’s length, athleticism, and ability to create his own shot would add a new dimension to the Warriors’ offense. He’s a player who can thrive both on and off the ball, allowing Curry to play his natural game without carrying the entire scoring load.
Ingram’s scoring versatility would make the Warriors nearly impossible to guard. While teams often double-team or trap Curry at half-court, having Ingram as a secondary scoring threat would make defenses pay. His mid-range game, finishing ability at the rim, and growing three-point shooting would create massive headaches for opposing teams.
Stephen A. Smith, reacting to the rumor, said, “This would be an insane move. You pair a scorer like Ingram with the greatest shooter we’ve ever seen in Curry? Who’s stopping that? It would be a nightmare for defenses across the league.”
A Dynamic Duo That Could Rule the League
If the trade happens, Ingram and Curry would form one of the most dangerous duos in the NBA, rivaling the likes of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, and other elite pairings. Curry’s gravity on the court—his ability to pull defenders far from the basket—would open up driving lanes for Ingram, giving him easier opportunities to attack the rim and shoot over smaller defenders.
Ingram’s ability to create offense would also relieve some of the pressure on Curry. At 36 years old, Curry continues to play at an MVP level, but adding a young star like Ingram would allow the Warriors to manage Curry’s minutes and keep him fresh for deep playoff runs. Ingram’s playmaking skills have also improved, making him a capable facilitator when defenses focus too much on Curry.
Defensive Upgrade for the Warriors
Beyond his offensive prowess, Ingram would provide the Warriors with additional defensive versatility. His length and agility make him a capable defender who can guard multiple positions. Pairing him with Draymond Green, one of the league’s top defenders, would bolster the Warriors’ ability to switch and disrupt opposing offenses.
The Warriors, known for their small-ball lineups, could also benefit from Ingram’s rebounding and ability to contest shots, helping shore up one of the team’s few weaknesses—interior defense.
A Championship Window Reopened
With Curry still playing at a high level and Klay Thompson returning to form, the addition of Brandon Ingram could reopen the Warriors’ championship window. The team has already won four championships in the Curry era, but adding a young All-Star like Ingram could extend their dominance well into the future.
Golden State’s front office knows they need to maximize Curry’s remaining years as a superstar, and bringing in a dynamic scorer like Ingram could be the key to staying at the top of the league. The trade would not only give the Warriors another elite offensive weapon but also a player who could carry the torch when Curry eventually transitions into a smaller role.
The Big Question: Can It Really Happen?
While the potential of an Ingram-Curry duo is tantalizing, the big question remains: can the Warriors pull off such a trade? New Orleans may be hesitant to part with a player as talented as Ingram, especially as they build around Zion Williamson. However, the right package from Golden State—especially one that includes promising young talent and future draft capital—could be enough to entice the Pelicans.
Stephen A. Smith noted, “If you’re New Orleans, you have to seriously consider this. If you can get a haul of young talent and assets for Ingram while building around Zion, you might be setting yourself up for long-term success. But if you’re the Warriors, you do everything in your power to make this happen. The championship is the goal, and Ingram could be the piece that puts them over the top.”
Conclusion: A Duo for the Ages?
If the Warriors can pull off this epic trade, Stephen Curry and Brandon Ingram could become the NBA’s most dangerous duo, potentially leading Golden State to another championship and cementing Curry’s legacy as one of the greatest winners in basketball history. While it’s still speculative, the thought of Curry and Ingram teaming up should have the rest of the league on high alert. The Warriors have never been afraid to make bold moves, and this could be their biggest yet.
Will the Warriors pull the trigger on this blockbuster deal and form a super duo for the ages? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—if it happens, the Golden State Warriors will be right back in the hunt for NBA dominance.