The Toronto Raptors have won eight straight games, becoming one of the biggest surprises in the NBA. Part of the success they have had on the court has been due to the fact that they are finally healthy. They also had Brandon Ingram for an entire offseason.
Ingram was traded to the Raptors halfway through last season. Then he was injured, so Ingram did not play at all for Toronto last season. Right now, the Raptors sit second in the Eastern Conference standings, sitting just below the Pistons.
Following a victory over the Cavaliers, Ingram had a postgame interview on the court in which he seemed to take a shot at his former team.
GettyTORONTO, ON – NOVEMBER 24: Brandon Ingram #3 of the Toronto Raptors waves to the crowd as he walks off the court after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers at Scotiabank Arena on November 24, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andrew Lahodynskyj/Getty Images)
Raptors’ Brandon Ingram Throws Shade at Pelicans
In his postgame interview, Ingram seemed to imply that New Orleans doesn’t care about winning basketball.
“I’m happy to be with a group of guys that care about the game of basketball, and care about winning. It’s been fun, it’s been fun to be out here.”
Saying that seems like a direct shot at the Pelicans, who have struggled over the last few years. Ingram was traded from New Orleans and promptly signed a three-year, $120 million contract with the Raptors. That will keep him with the Raptors through his prime.
While the Raptors are one of the best teams in the NBA, the Pelicans have struggled to win games. New Orleans has the worst record in the Western Conference. They look destined for the draft lottery yet again, something Ingram is glad to be away from.
GettyNEW YORK, NEW YORK – NOVEMBER 11: Brandon Ingram #3 of the Toronto Raptors in action during the game against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on November 11, 2025 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Raptors won 119-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
The Toronto Raptors Need Brandon Ingram To Stay Healthy
Ingram has a history of injuries, so the Raptors need him to stay healthy. Right now, Ingram is the best player that Toronto has on the roster, not named Scottie Barnes. Ingram’s numbers are similar to what they were a year ago in the 18 games he played for the Pelicans.
In his career, Ingram has only played 65 games or more once. That was in his rookie year with the Lakers. Other than that, the career high for games played is 64. If the Raptors are going to continue the success they are having, Ingram has to be on the court.
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