Why Kelsey Plum trade to Phoenix Mercury has been labelled a 'head-scratcher'

The Phoenix Mercury acquired Kelsey Plum from the Los Angeles Sparks on the penultimate day of the 2026 WNBA trade deadline, and the move has baffled some observers. Plum is a two-time WNBA champion who rejoined the Sparks on a one-year deal in 2026, aiming to boost her financial security while keeping flexibility to find a longer-term fit. Critics, including NBC Sports’ Kylen Mills, called the trade a “head-scratcher” because Phoenix is 6 games behind the last playoff spot with 14 games left and traded for what is essentially a rental. Mills noted Phoenix also surrendered a first-round pick in a deep 2027 class. Still, the Mercury’s case is that Plum’s averages this season—23.9 points, 6.4 assists, and 2.2 rebounds—gives the veteran-led group a clearer path next year.