The Los Angeles Sparks have traded five-time All-Star guard Kelsey Plum to the Phoenix Mercury. The deal, completed late Saturday night, includes Monique Akoa Makani, a 2027 first-round pick, and a 2028 second-round pick heading to Los Angeles. This trade ranks as only the fourth instance in league history of an All-Star being moved during the midseason window.
Plum has been sidelined since June 21 due to a lower left leg injury. Before her absence, she was playing at a high level, averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game. The Sparks, currently holding a 10-17 record, have struggled significantly during her time off the court, managing only two wins in their last eleven games.
This move comes as the Sparks navigate a difficult season. The organization previously attempted to accelerate their contention window by trading for Plum prior to the 2025 season and acquiring veterans like Nneka Ogwumike and Ariel Atkins. Despite these efforts, the team remains outside the playoff picture with six games left in the season.
Plum joins a Phoenix Mercury roster looking to build on their experience from last season’s Finals appearance. While the guard intends to enter free agency during the upcoming offseason, the move provides the Mercury with a significant boost in scoring and playmaking for the remainder of the schedule. The Sparks now turn their attention to a future that includes two new interim general managers and additional draft capital.