The Raptors traded Bruce Brown Jr., Kelly Olynyk, and a pair of first and second round draft picks, which was viewed as a risk considering the team’s current trajectory, and Ingram rejecting an extension with the Pelicans.

This led to Ingram being placed on the trade block – before the Toronto Raptors moved to acquire the player, who has been out with injury since December 8.

Brandon Ingram signs extension

The Toronto Raptors showed faith in Brandon Ingram by trading for him, a move that was questioned by one analyst, who voiced that the team should be selling and not buying.

Ingram has displayed his commitment to the Raptors now, by agreeing a contract extension with the team.

ESPN report Ingram has signed to a three-year $120 million deal, a move that ensures he will not hit free agency in the summer.

Reaction to Brandon Ingram extension

The reaction among NBA fans had a mixed response, with some feeling that the Toronto Raptors have overpaid for Brandon Ingram.

In response to the news, one wrote on X: “Crazy overpay we haven’t even seen him yet with the Raptors.”

Another posted: “Toronto the only team that was gonna give him that.”

“This has been the craziest NBA season in a while”, added a third.

“How does this dude keep getting paid. He plays half a season at best every year,” wrote a fourth.

But others are intrigued by what the Raptors are building, adding a talented player around rising star Scottie Barnes.

One wrote: “Damn Raptors building a squad,” with another writing: “Raptors going to be fun to watch.”

“That is a score for the Raptors. They now have pieces to start a rebuild with,” posted another.

A fourth wrote: “In terms of teams with long term visions & goals, I have to say the Raptors won the trade deadline with this acquisition to add to their young core.”

While spare a thought for one unhappy Mavs fan who posted: “That’s who the Dallas Mavericks should’ve traded for and kept Luka.”

Ingram is a high pick looking for new start

Brandon Ingram needs to earn his money now. A former second overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft, he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the huge Anthony Davis package.

Teammate Zion Williamson expressed sadness to see him leave, but it was clear Ingram was going to move on.

Still only 27, Ingram has secured life-changing money over the next three years, and needs to demonstrate to Raptors fans he is worth the considerable investment.

He is working his way back from injury, and could yet help the 16-37 team finish strong, after a 5-5 stretch over the last 10, that includes losing the last four.