Brandon Ingram's salary reflects his transformation from a promising rookie into a cornerstone franchise player for the New Orleans Pelicans. The financial terms of his contracts speak to the significant impact he has had on the court, evolving into a primary scoring option and a reliable leader for the team.
The Structure of His Current Contract
As of the current 2024-25 season, Brandon Ingram is operating under a max-level contract extension he signed in 2021. This deal guarantees him substantial annual earnings that place him among the league's highest-paid small forwards. The structure of this extension was designed to reward his All-Star caliber play while securing his services long-term for the Pelicans.
Salary Breakdown for 2024-25
For this specific season, Ingram's salary is approximately $42,293,281. This figure represents the final year of his current extension, meaning he will hit unrestricted free agency again after the campaign concludes. Teams looking to make a splash in the 2025 free agency period will likely have significant cap space available to pursue a player of his caliber.
Career Trajectory and Earnings Growth
Looking back at his entry-level deal, Ingram's salary has seen a dramatic increase year over year. Early in his career, his earnings were more modest, typical for a young player on a rookie scale contract. However, his decision to decline the 2019 extension option and test free agency in 2021 was a pivotal moment that led to him securing a supermax deal.
2017-18 Rookie Season: Averaged around $6 million.
2019-20 Peak Years: Earnings jumped into the $20+ million range.
2021-Present: Secured a max contract exceeding $40 million annually.
Performance-Based Value and Market Comparison
Ingram's salary is not just a number; it is a direct reflection of his on-court production and his market value compared to peers. He averages over 24 points per game during his prime seasons, putting him in elite scoring territory. When comparing his earnings to other wings in the league, such as Paul George or Jayson Tatum, his compensation is found to be firmly in line with the upper echelon of the sport.
Tax Implications and Take-Home Pay
Earning over $42 million inevitably places Ingram in the highest federal tax bracket. While the gross salary is substantial, the actual take-home pay is significantly reduced by federal, state, and local taxes. Financial experts often highlight that playing in a state like California (before joining New Orleans) had different tax implications than now playing in Louisiana, which has no state income tax.
The Road to Free Agency
Following the 2024-25 season, Ingram will become an unrestricted free agent, making his current salary a temporary arrangement. His performance over the next year will be critical in determining the length and structure of his next contract. It is widely expected that he will command a similar or slightly increased salary, given his age and the trajectory of his career.
Luxury Tax Considerations for the Pelicans
For the New Orleans Pelicans, paying Brandon Ingram his current salary is a calculated risk to remain competitive. His salary counts heavily against the team's payroll, pushing them closer to the luxury tax threshold each year. The organization must balance the desire to keep him with the financial constraints of maintaining roster flexibility around him.
