Sparks Trade Plum to Mercury in Deadline Deal

In a surprising move just before Sunday’s trade deadline, the Los Angeles Sparks have sent All-Star guard Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury in exchange for a first-round pick next year, Monique Akoa Makani, and a second-round draft choice in 2028. The deal, finalized late Saturday night, marks a significant shift for both teams as they navigate the remainder of the WNBA season.

Plum’s Departure Amidst Injury and Free Agency

The trade comes as Plum has been sidelined since June 21st with a lower leg injury. While she practiced earlier this week and was expected to return to action against Portland, her availability remained uncertain. The fact that the Sparks parted ways with an All-Star caliber player, especially one who is a free agent at the end of the season, raises questions about the team’s long-term strategy and the speed of their rebuilding effort. Los Angeles had hoped Plum’s arrival before last season, acquired in a blockbuster deal that sent the No. 2 pick to Seattle, would accelerate that process. Seattle, in turn, used that pick to select Dominique Malonga, who has emerged as an All-Star this season.

Mercury Seek to Rekindle Finals Form

For the Phoenix Mercury, acquiring Plum represents an attempt to bolster a roster that has struggled to recapture the form of last season’s WNBA Finals appearance. Currently sitting at 11-19 and six games behind the New York Liberty for the eighth and final playoff spot, the Mercury desperately need a spark. The team has rarely resembled the championship contender they were just months ago, despite the return of stars Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper. Plum’s scoring prowess – she averaged 23.9 points and 6.4 assists before her injury – could provide the offensive boost they’ve been lacking.

Akoa Makani’s Role and the Draft Capital

Monique Akoa Makani, who will head to Los Angeles, has averaged 9.4 points and 2.5 assists in 16 games this season, though she has also dealt with a hamstring injury earlier in the year. The first-round pick and second-round selection offer the Sparks valuable draft capital as they continue to rebuild, a testament to the perceived value of Plum despite her current injury status. The Sparks’ recent struggles, losing six consecutive games without Plum, underscore the impact of her absence and the gamble the Mercury are taking in acquiring her.

The Mercury’s next game is Monday at Chicago, where Plum will make her debut for her new team.