Five players to watch ahead of Aug. 2 WNBA trade deadline

Key Points:

• The WNBA trade deadline is approaching on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, with playoff-contending teams evaluating potential trades to strengthen their rosters and lower-ranked teams considering moves for future improvement amid many players on one-year contracts.
• Kelsey Plum of the Los Angeles Sparks, a top scorer currently sidelined by injury, could be traded as the Sparks focus on rebuilding; potential suitors include the Golden State Valkyries and Washington Mystics, though both may hesitate due to Plum's free agency status and health concerns.
• Young forwards Aneesah Morrow (Connecticut Sun) and Aaliyah Edwards could attract interest from teams like Toronto and Phoenix seeking improved rebounding and post depth, though Morrow's recent health issues could impact trade decisions.
• Veteran Betnijah Laney-Hamilton of the New York Liberty, whose playing time has diminished this season, might be traded to teams such as Dallas, Toronto, or Connecticut looking for experienced defensive players, especially as the Liberty contemplate adding youth.
• Maddy Siegrist of the Dallas Wings, a strong scorer with reduced minutes this season, and Skylar Diggins of the Chicago Sky, reportedly unhappy with her role and team direction, are also potential trade candidates as their teams assess future plans.