3 Trades that would make the Los Angeles Lakers instant title contenders

Lakers reunite with Brandon Ingram

One of the most intriguing possibilities facing the Los Angeles Lakers this summer centers around a reunion with a former lottery pick. Brandon Ingram, whom the Lakers selected at No. 2 overall in the 2016 NBA Draft, could potentially be the odd-man out in the New Orleans Pelicans' new-look lineup.

In the event that Ingram and his expiring contract hit the trade market, then returning to the team that drafted him may just be the best move for both sides.

For Los Angeles, reuniting with Ingram would mean adding a facilitating wing to a team that's looking to take playmaking pressure of LeBron James. It would also result in the Lakers finding the type of scoring threat they've been searching for.

In five seasons with the Pelicans, Ingram has averaged 23.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.8 three-point field goals made on .472/.372/.847 shooting.

In terms of what a potential trade would look like, the Lakers would have to part with Rui Hachimura, D'Angelo Russell, and Jalen Hood-Schifino to make the salaries match. They'd also be tasked with sending out draft compensation.

Based on the Pelicans' current roster construction calling more for role players and up-and-comers, adding an expiring Russell contract and depth plays in Hachimura and Hood-Schifino could be appealing.

Sometimes, moving forward requires a dose of history—and Ingram's is certainly compelling.