The Los Angeles Sparks traded five-time All-Star guard Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury late Saturday night, just hours before Sunday’s WNBA trade deadline. The deal was finalized in exchange for guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round draft pick, and a 2028 second-round selection, according to reports from multiple outlets.
Plum, a two-time WNBA champion, has not played since June 21 due to a lower left leg injury and was expected to return with minutes restrictions. Her availability for Phoenix’s upcoming game against the Chicago Sky on Monday remains uncertain. The Mercury, seeking postseason contention, acquire Plum amid a career-best statistical season in which she averaged 23.9 points and 6.4 assists through 12 games, including league-leading scoring earlier this year.
Sparks’ Rebuild Fails to Materialize
The trade concludes Plum’s brief tenure in Los Angeles, where she was acquired before the 2025 season in a three-team deal involving the Las Vegas Aces and Seattle Storm. The Sparks sent the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 draft to Seattle as part of the package, a selection later used on All-Star Dominique Malonga. Despite Plum’s individual success, the partnership did not translate to team success. The Sparks, now 10-17 and on a six-game losing streak, sit outside playoff contention for a sixth consecutive season.
Phoenix Adds Offensive Firepower
For Phoenix, Plum provides an immediate offensive boost. The Mercury, aiming to bolster their roster for a postseason push, now have a proven scorer with a track record of high-level performance. Plum’s 52.7% field goal shooting and 38.3% three-point accuracy in her limited games this season underscore her offensive value. The trade deadline move reflects Phoenix’s strategy to address roster weaknesses ahead of potential playoff contention.
Injury and Availability Concerns
Plum’s injury status remains a key factor in the trade’s impact. The lower left leg injury, which has sidelined her for 10 games, raises questions about her readiness for Phoenix’s upcoming schedule. The Mercury have not yet confirmed her availability for Monday’s game against the Chicago Sky, leaving uncertainty about her immediate contributions.
Draft Picks and Future Implications
The return for the Sparks includes a 2027 first-round pick and a 2028 second-round selection, assets aimed at accelerating a rebuild centered around Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson. The trade deadline deal follows the firing of Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley in July, a move that coincided with the team’s struggles. With Plum set to enter free agency, the trade provided Los Angeles with an opportunity to recoup value before her potential departure.