All-Star’s delayed contract talks could open door for Denver Nuggets move

Things are looking pretty solid for the Denver Nuggets right now. They’re coming off of an NBA championship run and managed to keep the majority of their winning core together. Of course, things are destined to change eventually, so it’s never a bad idea to think about some future options.

One of them plays his basketball for the New Orleans Pelicans… for now.

Brandon Ingram was named to his first-ever All-Star team in 2020, his first season in New Orleans. Now, he’s only got two seasons left in the Big Easy, and is due an extension soon — just not yet.

According to NOLA.com’s Christian Clark, Ingram is in no rush to get a deal done with the Pelicans.

Clark revealed that “multiple sources,” feel that Ingram “will wait until next summer before engaging in extension talks with the franchise that acquired him in the Anthony Davis trade four years ago.”

He also mentioned that the delay seems to be financially based, as Ingram will be able to sign a more lucrative contract if he elects to wait.

Does this delay open an avenue for Brandon Ingram to join the Denver Nuggets?

Maybe.

In the case that something goes wrong next summer when the Pels would start negotiations, then there would be more pressure to make something happen before they lose Ingram for nothing.

Enter the Nuggets. What if they decide they’re interested in offloading Michael Porter Jr. and his $179 million contract extension? It’s a scenario that’s often pitched in mock trades.

The 25-year-old’s injury history does leave some questions when it comes to his $33.3 million annual salary. Plus, despite having a solid regular season in 2022-23, Porter Jr. did leave a bit more to be desired in the postseason.

Both wings have nearly identical paychecks, making a one-for-one swap entirely possible. The real question just comes from each front office’s valuation of their respective star.

As of now, there’s nothing imminent, so don’t get too excited — just a thought.