Over the previous couple of years, the New Orleans Pelicans have had loads of expertise and potential, however they’ve failed to comprehend that potential, not less than thus far.
They’ve three bona fide stars in Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum and Brandon Ingram, however Williamson and Ingram have had bother staying wholesome on a constant foundation.
Whereas Ingram is likely one of the NBA’s most gifted one-on-one scorers, ESPN persona Stephen A. Smith feels he doesn’t work exhausting sufficient, and Smith mentioned he must be in an atmosphere the place he might be held accountable, per The OGs Present.
Stephen A. Smith says Brandon Ingram must be in an atmosphere that holds him accountable
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Ingram arrived in New Orleans for the 2019-20 season, and he averaged 23.8 factors a recreation that 12 months whereas successful the Most Improved Participant award and being named to the All-Star crew for the primary time.
Whereas he has improved his field-goal capturing since then, his 3-point effectivity has fluctuated from 12 months to 12 months, and his scoring common fell to twenty.8 factors a recreation this previous season.
Many have felt that Ingram, who’s 6-foot-8, has great defensive potential, however he hasn’t fairly grow to be the defensive stopper he probably might’ve been by now.
The truth that he’s simply 190 kilos regardless of being within the NBA for eight seasons may very well be proof that he doesn’t work exhausting sufficient on his craft, as Smith claimed.
Ingram and crew might be joined by guard Dejounte Murray, a former All-Star whom the Pelicans just lately acquired in a commerce with the Atlanta Hawks, so they may have fairly probably essentially the most proficient crew in franchise historical past.
However until Ingram (and Williamson) raises his recreation, the Pelicans received’t go far within the playoffs.
NEXT:
Brandon Ingram Reportedly In search of $200 Million Contract Extension
