WNBA Offseason: A Flurry of Star Movement and Trade Grades
The 2025 WNBA offseason has been nothing short of a whirlwind, with star players making headlines as they switch teams. Four former All-WNBA picks from the past three seasons have already found new homes via trade, and the rumor mill suggests more moves could be on the horizon.
It all began with a blockbuster three-team trade involving the Las Vegas Aces, Los Angeles Sparks, and Seattle Storm. This deal sent Jewell Loyd to the Aces, Kelsey Plum to the Sparks via sign-and-trade, and a package of draft picks, including the No. 2 pick in April’s WNBA draft, to the Storm.
Not to be outdone, the Phoenix Mercury made waves by acquiring Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun, just two seasons after she was the runner-up in MVP voting. The Mercury then paired Thomas with Satou Sabally—both All-WNBA first-team picks in 2023—by orchestrating another sign-and-trade deal involving the Dallas Wings and Indiana Fever.
On Sunday, the Washington Mystics traded Ariel Atkins to the Chicago Sky. This move has sparked discussions about which teams have come out on top in these major WNBA deals and how these trades will impact the rest of the league. Let’s dive into the trade grades and implications.
Patience Pays Off for Washington, Which Trades Atkins to Chicago
Sky get: Ariel Atkins
Mystics get: No. 3 pick in 2025 draft, rights to swap first-round picks in 2027 draft with Sky, Sky’s second-round pick in 2027 draft
Chicago Sky: C-
After a season in the lottery, the Sky are gearing up for a playoff push in 2025. Atkins is a key addition to a roster that has also welcomed veteran starters Courtney Vandersloot and Rebecca Allen, joining a frontcourt core of 2024 first-round picks Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso.
While Atkins may not have the same star power as Jewell Loyd or Kelsey Plum, she was arguably as valuable last season and is the youngest of the three at 28. Atkins is a more complete player, known for her efficient scoring and defensive prowess, having made the All-Defensive team each of her first five seasons.
For Chicago, Atkins fills a void at shooting guard and can defend the opposition’s best guard, allowing Vandersloot to focus on offense. Her shooting addresses a major weakness for the Sky, as Atkins’ 79 3-pointers were 23 more than any Chicago player made in 2024.
The question is whether the Sky gave up too much. The No. 3 pick alone would have been reasonable, but including swap rights to Chicago’s 2027 first-round pick is a significant risk. Depending on how the Sky fill out their roster, they could be a fringe playoff team this season.
Washington Mystics: A
The Mystics took their time entering the offseason fray, but trading Atkins reflects a long-term strategy focused on building through the draft. With three of the top six picks in April’s draft, Washington is well-positioned for a rebuild.
Landing the No. 3 pick could be crucial if top prospects like Paige Bueckers and Olivia Miles declare for the draft. If the Mystics can secure a future star, this trade will be a win. Washington’s patience has paid off with a strong return for Atkins.
Wings Trade Sabally to Phoenix in Three-Team Deal
Mercury get: Satou Sabally, Kalani Brown, Sevgi Uzun
Wings get: NaLyssa Smith, Tyasha Harris, Mikiah Herbert Harrigan, No. 8 pick in 2025 draft
Fever get: Sophie Cunningham, No. 19 pick in 2025 draft
Phoenix Mercury: A
The Mercury have made a splash this offseason, adding stars like Alyssa Thomas and Satou Sabally to their roster. Despite losing Brittney Griner and potentially Diana Taurasi, Phoenix boasts one of the WNBA’s most star-studded lineups.
By acquiring Sabally, the Mercury have pulled off a favorable deal, giving up only a first-round pick and a few players. This move sets Phoenix up for success in 2025 and beyond, as they aim to maximize their star power and compete for a championship.
Dallas Wings: B+
The Wings’ success in this trade hinges on NaLyssa Smith’s development. While Smith’s value dipped last season, Dallas is banking on her potential to improve. The Wings are also pursuing defensive help in the form of DiJonai Carrington, which could bolster their roster.
Overall, the Wings have made strategic moves to strengthen their team, and their success will depend on how these new additions perform in the upcoming season.
Indiana Fever: C+
The Fever’s decision to trade NaLyssa Smith and a first-round pick for Sophie Cunningham raises questions about the value of the deal. While Cunningham is a good fit for Indiana, the trade suggests that Smith’s value may not be as high as expected.
Indiana’s future success will depend on the development of their young talent, and the Fever will need to make strategic moves to remain competitive in the league.
Jan. 28: Sun Trade Alyssa Thomas to Mercury
Connecticut gets: Natasha Cloud, Rebecca Allen, No. 12 pick in 2025 draft
Phoenix gets: Alyssa Thomas, Tyasha Harris
Phoenix Mercury: A
The Mercury’s acquisition of Alyssa Thomas marks a significant shift in their roster. With Thomas as a focal point, Phoenix is poised to compete for a championship, even as they navigate potential changes with Griner and Taurasi.
Thomas’ ability to generate opportunities for her teammates makes her a valuable addition to the Mercury, and her presence could elevate Phoenix to title contention.
Connecticut Sun: B-
The Sun are entering a new era with the departure of Alyssa Thomas and coach Stephanie White. While the trade package they received is solid, Connecticut faces challenges in maintaining their competitive edge without Thomas as their anchor.
The Sun will need to make strategic moves to remain competitive, and their success will depend on how they navigate this transitional period.
Jan. 26: How the Kelsey Plum-Jewell Loyd Blockbuster Shakes Up Three Teams
Aces get: Jewell Loyd, No. 13 pick in 2025 draft
Sparks get: Kelsey Plum, No. 9 pick in 2025 draft, 2026 second-round pick
Storm get: Li Yueru, No. 2 pick in 2025 draft, 2026 first-round pick
Las Vegas Aces: B+
The Aces’ acquisition of Jewell Loyd is a strategic move to replace Kelsey Plum. Loyd’s familiarity with her new teammates and her willingness to embrace a secondary role make her a valuable addition to Las Vegas.
While the Aces face challenges in building their roster, Loyd’s presence could help them remain competitive in the league.
Los Angeles Sparks: B-
The Sparks’ decision to acquire Kelsey Plum signals their intent to accelerate their rebuild and return to playoff contention. While giving up the No. 2 pick is a significant loss, Plum’s addition strengthens their backcourt and positions Los Angeles for future success.
The Sparks will need to continue upgrading their roster to maximize Plum’s impact and compete in the league.
Seattle Storm: A-
The Storm’s trade of Jewell Loyd for draft picks positions them for a potential run at the No. 1 pick. With a strong draft position and cap flexibility, Seattle is well-positioned to build for the future while remaining competitive in the present.
Seattle’s success will depend on their ability to leverage their draft assets and make strategic moves in free agency.
Originally Written by: Kevin Pelton
