Sparks Trade Plum to Mercury, Signaling Rebuild in Los Angeles
The WNBA trade deadline delivered a surprisingly muted shift in power, but the Los Angeles Sparks’ decision to send five-time All-Star Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury stands as a definitive signal of a full rebuild for the franchise.
A Bold Move for the Mercury
The deal, finalized late Saturday night, sent Plum – averaging a career-best 23.9 points per game – to Phoenix in exchange for second-year guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick. It’s only the fourth time in WNBA history that an All-Star has been moved midseason, immediately highlighting the Sparks’ willingness to embrace a significant shift in direction.
Phoenix, currently sitting in 11th place with a 11-19 record, is betting on Plum’s scoring ability to inject much-needed offensive firepower. However, the acquisition isn’t without risk. Plum, who is slated to become a free agent following the 2026 season, is expected to explore her options, including a potential supermax contract – worth $1.4 million – with the Sparks, a deal she secured ahead of this season.
Tempo Acquires Morrow
Elsewhere, the Toronto Tempo bolstered their roster by acquiring second-year forward Aneesah Morrow from the Connecticut Sun. Toronto sent a 2028 second-round draft pick and the rights to forward Maria Kliundikova in return. Morrow, averaging 8.9 points and 7.5 rebounds, could provide a much-needed lift to a Tempo team struggling at 10-18.
The WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement, which significantly increased team salary caps, undoubtedly fueled speculation of a more active deadline. Yet, the overall volume of movement remained relatively restrained. The eight teams currently holding the top eight spots in the standings are guaranteed a playoff berth, regardless of conference, effectively dampening the urgency for many teams.
Looking ahead, the potential arrival of franchises in Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia in 2028, 2029, and 2030 respectively, offers a longer-term horizon for increased competition and roster turnover within the league. For now, however, the Sparks’ move underscores a clear and immediate strategic priority: a complete overhaul.”n