Major WNBA trade! Sparks send Plum to Mercury for Mackani, a first-round pick, and a second-round pick.

On August 2, Beijing time, per Shams, the Los Angeles Sparks sent five-time All-Star Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury, receiving Mackani, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick in return.

Less than two years ago, the Sparks had acquired Plum through a blockbuster three-team deal involving the Las Vegas Aces and the Seattle Storm. At that time, to bring in the two-time champion, the Sparks gave up the 2025 WNBA draft's second overall pick as part of the package. On July 12 this year, after a two-game winning streak, the Sparks fired general manager Regan Pebley; since then, the team has suffered six consecutive losses, falling further behind in the playoff race.

Despite Plum's impressive individual performance, the partnership between her and the team never translated into wins. Before the trade deadline, the Sparks were already far from playoff contention. Multiple sources recently indicated that Plum was unlikely to re-sign after the season, so for the management, completing the trade before free agency opened was the best way to recoup assets.

Plum has been sidelined with a calf injury. In the 12 games before her absence, she was having one of the best offensive seasons of her career: averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game, shooting 52.7% from the field and 38.3% from three-point range, and earning another All-Star selection. She was the Sparks' offensive anchor.

For the Mercury, Plum provides an immediate boost to their offensive firepower. As one of the league's top shooting guards, she brings championship experience, and her perimeter shooting and playmaking will support a team aiming for a playoff push.

On the other side, the Sparks' rebuilding process remains stuck: several veteran players on the roster have long-term contracts, with only Rae Burrell's contract expiring soon.

This trade is one of the biggest moves before the WNBA trade deadline and could reshape the championship landscape. For the Sparks, this deal once again confirms that the team is still struggling to find a path back to title contention.