Why Brandon Ingram Wanted Raptors Trade Over 2 Other Teams, According to Rich Paul

Ingram arrived in Toronto playing out the final year of his current contract. Well, technically, the one-time All-Star was sitting it out after suffering a severe ankle sprain injury that has kept him out of action since a matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Dec. 7.

That did not stop the Raptors from locking up their new forward. There appeared to be strong mutual interest from both sides in getting a deal done. Things moved pretty quickly, with Ingram and the Raptors agreeing to a three-year, $120 million contract that included a player option.

On a recent episode of Gil's Arena, the CEO of Klutch Sports Group revealed why Ingram preferred the Raptors trade over two other teams. Rich Paul, who represents the former second overall pick, told Gilbert Arenas what things looked like behind the scenes.

“In BI’s case, he had a couple of different cases he could have went in,” the NBA agent said in Gil’s Arena. “Toronto was most aggressive, he was able to get his extension done right then and there, so we didn’t have to worry about the summer.”

When available, Ingram should make for a solid running mate for Raptors star Scottie Barnes. The talented offensive star should be capable of alleviating Barnes' load offensively, allowing the do-it-all player to lead the charge defensively. Toronto could be in for a fun season in 2025-26.