Ingram, 27, suffered the injury early in the third quarter of Saturday’s loss to Oklahoma City. While driving into the lane, Ingram rose for a shot and was whistled for an offensive foul after his elbow appeared to hit Luguentz Dort, who fell to the ground. Ingram’s left foot landed on Dort’s right foot, causing his ankle to roll. He had to be helped off the court by his teammates.
According to Charania, Ingram left the Smoothie King Center — New Orleans’ home arena — in a walking boot and crutches.
Ingram helped the Pelicans snap a nine-game losing streak on Thursday vs. Phoenix by scoring a game-high 29 points, only to suffer the ankle sprain in his second game back after missing the previous five contests with a right leg injury.
It’s a devastating blow for the Pelicans, who have dealt with numerous injuries to key players this season, and for Ingram, who has been sidelined by various injuries throughout his nine-year career. The former No. 2 overall pick will be an unrestricted free agent next summer.
In 18 games this season (33.1 minutes), Ingram has averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists, with a shooting line of .465/.374/.855. Due in large part to their crushing wave of injuries, the Pelicans are just 5-19, last place in the Western Conference.
With Ingram out and Zion Williamson (hamstring), Jose Alvarado (hamstring) and Jordan Hawkins (back) still sidelined, Trey Murphy III will likely slide back into the starting lineup, with Javonte Green and Brandon Boston among the other candidates for more shots and minutes.