The Los Angeles Sparks traded five-time All-Star guard Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury just before the 2026 WNBA trade deadline on August 1, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. Phoenix sent guard Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick to the Sparks in exchange [1, 2, 3].
Plum, who has been sidelined since June 21, 2026, with a lower left leg injury, was expected to play in the Sparks' game against Portland on Sunday before the trade was finalized [1, 2, 3]. Prior to her injury, Plum was averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game—both career highs—for the 2026 season [1, 2, 3].
The Phoenix Mercury enter the trade with an 11-19 record, sitting below the playoff cutoff [1, 2, 3]. They hope Plum will boost their offense and help them return to the playoffs after falling short in last season’s WNBA Finals [1, 2, 3]. Monique Akoa Makani, who was traded to the Sparks, averaged about 9.4 points and 2.5 assists in 16 games this season [1, 2].
The Sparks were 10-17 at the time of the trade, struggling without Plum on the floor. The team fired general manager Raegan Pebley in July 2026 amid their poor record [2, 3]. Plum was set to become a free agent after the season and was not expected to re-sign with Los Angeles [2, 3].
An unnamed source told The Associated Press on condition of anonymity that the deal was finalized late on August 1, 2026 [1]. The trade was publicly reported the next day, with Plum expected to debut soon for Phoenix [1, 2, 3].
