NBA Rumors: Pelicans reportedly make U-turn on trade candidate with $40M per season extension on the table 

The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly looking to offer Brandon Ingram a contract extension worth $40 million per season. It's interesting how New Orleans is contemplating the idea considering how they've been planning on fully rebuilding the team.

There were rumors that the Pelicans were ready to move on from the Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson era. The rebuilding phase has somehow already commenced after declaring that the team is actively shopping CJ McCollum to another team. However, it's worth noting that the reason for wanting to trade McCollum is due to teams not being interested in Ingram.

Looking at his current contract, Ingram is making approximately $31.6 million a year. It's definitely intriguing how the team wants to offer him a higher salary, especially after expressing interest in trading him.

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New Orleans Pelicans are worst team in Western Conference

NBA: Phoenix Suns at New Orleans Pelicans - Source: Imagn

The New Orleans Pelicans are in a pickle again. Zion Williamson isn't available, Jonas Valanciunas is no longer with the team, while Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum have been inconsistent in terms of availability. As a result, they are currently the worst team in the Western Conference with a 5-18 record.

Looking at their wins, it seems that New Orleans is more efficient when playing at home. They have a 4-7 record in home games. However, on the road is a completely different story. They have a 1-11 record in away games.

Zion Williamson has only played in six games so far this season. CJ McCollum, on the other hand, has only played in 10 games. As for Brandon Ingram, he has played in the majority of the games but has missed quite a few, playing 17 games.

Given how Ingram is the most available star, he often finds himself carrying the team. Despite him averaging 23.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.3 assists, it's clear that his talents alone aren't enough to lead the Pelicans. With their current circumstances, the team may want to consider a makeover.