2026 WNBA trade deadline grades: Report cards for every deal
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- The Los Angeles Sparks traded five-time All-Star Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury in exchange for guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick, marking a significant move ahead of the WNBA trade deadline.
- The Phoenix Mercury acquired Plum, the league's No. 2 scorer, to boost their playoff chances despite their current 11-19 record; however, her contract expires after 2026, making the long-term impact uncertain.
- The Sparks, struggling with a 10-17 record, gained valuable draft picks and a promising young guard, allowing them to reset their future strategy after a disappointing 2026 season and the firing of their general manager.
- Plum, who has averaged a career-high 23.9 points this season, has been sidelined since June 21 due to a lower leg injury but is expected to be a key part of the Mercury's potential playoff push alongside stars Kahleah Copper and Alyssa Thomas.
- The trade represents a strategic gamble for both teams: the Mercury aim to contend now if they can retain Plum beyond 2026, while the Sparks pivot towards rebuilding with new draft assets and cap flexibility.
