Kelsey Plum Heads to Phoenix Mercury in Major Trade

Kelsey Plum is joining the Phoenix Mercury. The Los Angeles Sparks traded the five-time All-Star guard to the Mercury late Saturday night. In return, the Sparks receive Monique Akoa Makani, a first-round pick in 2027, and a second-round pick in 2028.

This significant trade happened just hours before the WNBA trade deadline on Sunday afternoon. It brings one of the most notable players to a Mercury team aiming for another postseason appearance. Plum, who has won two WNBA championships, has been sidelined since June 21 due to a lower left leg injury. While there was talk of her returning Sunday against the Portland Fire with limited playtime, her availability for Monday’s game against the Chicago Sky is still uncertain.

The 31-year-old guard was delivering some of her best career performances prior to her injury. She averaged 23.9 points and 6.4 assists over 12 games, both career highs. At one point, she led the league in scoring during the season.

Plum’s stint with Los Angeles lasted just one and a half seasons. The Sparks acquired her in a trade before the 2025 season, offering the No. 2 overall pick. The hope was that Plum could guide a rebuild alongside players like Cameron Brink and Rickea Jackson. Seattle used that selection on Dominique Malonga, who became an All-Star by her second season.

However, the anticipated turnaround for the Sparks didn’t happen. They missed the playoffs in 2025 and are currently 10-17, losing their last six games. During Plum’s latest absence, the team has gone 2-9, risking a sixth consecutive year without a postseason appearance.

The team parted ways with general manager Raegan Pebley in July. Assistant general managers Zach Knowlton and Nate Nielsen are now in charge temporarily.

Plum planned to enter free agency after the season and reportedly had no intentions of re-signing with the Sparks. This made her a prominent trade candidate as the deadline approached, with interest reportedly coming from the New York Liberty and Atlanta Dream.

Despite their current struggles, the Phoenix Mercury show strong commitment to pushing for success. With an 11-19 record, they are six games behind the Liberty for the last playoff spot. Plum will be crucial in adding scoring depth, easing the offensive responsibilities of Alyssa Thomas, who averages 8.3 assists per game.

This trade marks the fourth occasion an All-Star has moved during the WNBA season.