The New Orleans Pelicans have extended a qualifying offer to All-Star forward Brandon Ingram, per NBA reporter Keith Smith.

Ingram's qualifying offer is worth $9.5 million. He will also become a restricted free agent which means that the Pelicans have the right of first refusal.

Ingram, who was awarded the Most Improved Player last season, is considered one of the top free agents this summer. If Ingram gets another offer from a different team, the Pelicans can match this offer and keep Ingram.

To recall, Ingram was part of the blockbuster trade which sent Anthony Davis to the Lakers. Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, the draft rights to De'Andre Hunter, two first-round picks, a first-round pick swap, and cash went to the Pelicans as well.

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In his first season in New Orleans, Ingram got his first All-Star nod and was awarded Most Improved Player. He led the Pelicans in scoring with 23.8 points per game, snagged 6.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.0 steal across 33.9 minutes.

The Pelicans have been dubbed as a serious up and coming team. The young core of Ingram, Zion Williamson, and Lonzo Ball are expected to bloom together and turn the franchise into a perennial playoff team in the years to come.

Last month, the Pelicans hired Stan Van Gundy as their new head coach. Van Gundy has had stints with the Miami Heat, Orlando Magic, and the Detroit Pistons. Perhaps he's most known for his stint with the Magic as he led them to multiple playoff appearances including an NBA Finals berth in 2009.

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