The WNBA trade deadline on August 7 is rapidly approaching, generating significant activity across the league as teams seek to strengthen their rosters. With title contenders competing fiercely and struggling squads planning for the future, players including DiJonai Carrington are drawing interest as potential trade assets.
Teams like the New York Liberty and Phoenix Mercury are looking to add key pieces to challenge the dominant Minnesota Lynx, while lower-ranked teams such as the Dallas Wings and Connecticut Sun aim to exchange valuable players for draft picks and younger talent as they rebuild.
Players Under Consideration for Trades, Featuring DiJonai Carrington’s Shifting Role
DiJonai Carrington’s season has seen notable transitions after her trade to the Dallas Wings. Coming off a Most Improved Player award and strong performance with the Connecticut Sun, she initially appeared to be a strategic fit for Dallas. However, a slow start, a brief removal from the starting lineup, and a rib injury have derailed her momentum.
Now back on court, Carrington finds herself on a Wings team struggling in the standings, with the franchise concentrating on rebuilding around rising star Paige Bueckers. Given this development, Carrington could serve as a valuable trade asset for a player who fits better in the current rotation or draft selections to aid in the long-term plan.
Aaliyah Edwards’ Changing Role and Trade Potential with Washington Mystics
Washington Mystics forward Aaliyah Edwards was initially viewed as a critical building block for the team. Despite some early-season injury setbacks and the emergence of teammates Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen, Edwards remains a talented forward capable of impacting high-level teams.
Her reduced playing time has not diminished her appeal, as contenders such as the Seattle Storm and Las Vegas Aces could benefit from her versatility. Teams interested in acquiring Edwards would likely need to offer attractive assets to convince the Mystics to part with their promising player.
Marina Mabrey’s Trade Request and Connecticut Sun’s Rebuilding Plans
Guard Marina Mabrey began the season requesting a trade from the Connecticut Sun, and after a rocky start with only four wins, the team has considered moving her to stockpile draft picks. Although Mabrey’s desire to leave is clear, the Sun have so far rejected trade offers, aiming to secure a return matching her value.
Recent developments, including a revived interest from Mabrey due to a connection with guard Saniya Rivers, add complexity to the situation. Nevertheless, the Sun remain open to making a deal before the deadline to support their rebuild efforts.
Jewell Loyd’s Impact in Las Vegas and Possible Future Moves
Jewell Loyd, a multiple All-Star and former scoring champion, was traded from Seattle to Las Vegas in a major deal this year, raising championship hopes for the Aces. Despite the high expectations, Lloyd has yet to fully establish her impact in Vegas amid salary cap constraints and a team undergoing transition following Becky Hammon’s tenure.
With the Aces struggling to maintain a playoff position, questions remain about their immediate future, and Lloyd’s status beyond this season could become a significant topic of discussion as contracts and team direction evolve.
Arike Ogunbowale’s Diminished Role with Dallas and Trade Speculation
Arike Ogunbowale, long regarded as the face of the Dallas Wings, may also be on the move before the trade deadline. The rise of Paige Bueckers and the Wings’ rebuilding path has reduced Ogunbowale’s role, prompting speculation that Dallas could trade the veteran guard to acquire draft picks or players who better fit their future plans.
For contenders such as the Liberty and Minnesota Lynx, Ogunbowale presents an opportunity to add a dynamic scorer to strengthen their rosters, while the Wings aim to reset by exchanging experience for youth and draft capital.
Implications of Upcoming Trades for WNBA Teams and Fans
With the August 7 trade deadline drawing near, these prospective transactions—centering on players like DiJonai Carrington—highlight the league’s shifting landscape. For playoff contenders, acquiring proven talent could provide the final boost needed for championship runs. Meanwhile, teams at the bottom are focused on building foundations through draft assets and promising young players.
These moves will likely reshape team dynamics and influence competition across the WNBA for the remainder of the season and beyond, as franchises balance immediate aspirations with long-term growth strategies.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are NaLyssa Smith and DiJonai Carrington still together?
A. Carrington and Smith are no longer in a relationship.