A Star’s Fresh Start After Injury Turmoil
Brandon Ingram, once the centerpiece of the New Orleans Pelicans, is now the Toronto Raptors’ biggest offseason acquisition—and their biggest question mark. After a blockbuster trade in February 2025, Ingram landed in Toronto with a hefty three-year,
$120 million extension, signaling the Raptors’ intent to build around his versatile scoring and playmaking.
But the move comes after a brutal stretch: Ingram played just 17 games last season due to persistent ankle injuries, leaving fans and analysts wondering if he can return to his All-Star form. The Raptors are betting big that he can.
Raptors Betting on Ingram’s Health and Leadership
Toronto’s front office, led by GM Bobby Webster, is keeping a close eye on Ingram’s health. Webster told reporters, “We’ll see how pre-season goes…maybe the jury’s out there (on some load management). But no, no current plans on Brandon”. The team knows that Ingram’s ability to stay on the court will make or break their season.
Scottie Barnes, Toronto’s rising star, is excited to play alongside Ingram. “He can make any tough shot that’s possible. And he’s been more of a willing passer…He’s phenomenal. He can do so many things on the floor. He’s going to help us a lot this year. He’s going to demand so much attention,” Barnes said.
Ingram himself has been candid about his recovery. “Going on two, three months with the ankle, I was like, ‘Damn, I don’t know when I’m going to be back to my normal self,’” he told The Athletic. Now 28, he’s revamped his offseason routine, focusing on rest and recovery as much as gym work. Early returns are promising: Ingram is averaging 22.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3 assists through two preseason games, shooting
47% from the field.
Uncertainty Looms Over Raptors’ Future
Despite the optimism, Ingram’s long-term fit in Toronto is far from guaranteed. The Raptors are in the midst of a front office transition, with Bobby Webster potentially taking over for longtime president Masai Ujiri. Ujiri was reportedly the driving force behind the Ingram trade, but not everyone in the organization was convinced about the timing or fit.
If the Raptors struggle to contend, Ingram’s contract and role could come under scrutiny. “The Brandon Ingram experiment could be the primary point of emphasis to address, especially if the results do not turn out as desirable as Masai Ujiri once hoped,” wrote Raptors Rapture.
Off-Court Buzz: Ingram and GloRilla Spark Rumors
Adding to the intrigue, Ingram’s personal life has made headlines. He was recently spotted celebrating rapper GloRilla’s birthday in Cabo, sparking dating rumors after the two were seen leaving a nightclub together hand-in-hand. While Ingram is focused on his comeback, his off-court life is heating up, drawing attention from fans and media alike.
What’s Next for Ingram and the Raptors?
Toronto opens the regular season against Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks, with Ingram expected to play a central role. If he stays healthy and delivers on his potential, the Raptors could be in the mix for a Play-In spot in the Eastern Conference. If not, the team may face tough decisions about its future direction—and Ingram’s place in it.
Key Takeaways:
- Ingram’s health and performance are critical to the Raptors’ playoff hopes.
- The team’s front office transition could impact his long-term role.
- Off-court buzz adds another layer to Ingram’s high-profile season.
Watch for: Ingram’s minutes, scoring efficiency, and chemistry with Barnes as early indicators of Toronto’s trajectory.
Sources
1. Raptors excited to have Brandon Ingram, but how effective will he be?
2. Raptors' Brandon Ingram experiment might not last as long as ...
3. NBA Notes: Raptors, Brandon Ingram, Thunder, Chet Holmgren, Bulls
4. GloRilla & Brandon Ingram Spark Dating Rumors In Cabo - HOT 97
5. Brandon Ingram's Comeback & Raptors Training Camp Grind -
6. Toronto Raptors news - Basketball, Canada - Flashscore.com
7. GloRilla & Brandon Ingram Sitting In A Tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G! - BET
8. Lakers Rumors: More interest in trading for depth than Brandon Ingram
9. Brandon Ingram News, Rumors, Updates - Toronto Raptors
