The WNBA trade deadline on August 7 is nearing, making it a critical time for teams and players. Among the top candidates for trade, Marina Mabrey’s potential move stands out as teams aim to strengthen rosters and shift trajectories before the deadline.
Marina Mabrey’s Situation with Connecticut Sun
Marina Mabrey has delivered a strong individual performance this season, but the Connecticut Sun are struggling significantly with a 5-22 record, sitting last in the league standings. The Sun have been rebuilding for multiple seasons and currently lack a clear path to success based on their roster. Although Mabrey requested a trade over the offseason, it was not executed at that time.
With the trade deadline approaching, it seems more possible than ever that Mabrey will be moved to a team with championship aspirations. After being traded from the Chicago Sky last season, Mabrey has yet to get an opportunity to compete for a title. Her skill set makes a trade to a contender or a team gearing up to compete a logical step.
Rising Talent Aaliyah Edwards Might Change Teams
Aaliyah Edwards of the Washington Mystics, now in her second season, has demonstrated promising growth, averaging just over six points per game with significant potential to improve. The Mystics remain in a rebuilding phase but might consider trading Edwards to a team like the Golden State Valkyries, a newer franchise that could benefit from her youthful talent and contest a playoff spot.
Kia Nurse and the Chicago Sky’s Ongoing Rebuild
Kia Nurse, who is in her fifth team in five WNBA seasons, might be on the move again as the Chicago Sky continue to face a disappointing year. While there is hope for the Sky’s future, boosted by rising star Angel Reese, Nurse is nearly 30 and could find better opportunities with a more competitive team as she approaches the prime end of her career.
Elizabeth Williams Offers a Veteran Presence for Potential Trades
Elizabeth Williams, also from the Chicago Sky, has had a stronger season compared to Nurse, highlighted by a standout 15-point, 15-rebound game against the Mercury. Although both players may be traded, Williams’ age and performance make her a more likely candidate. Her capabilities could immediately benefit a contender looking to add a reliable inside presence.
Arike Ogunbowale Looks for a Better Team Environment
Arike Ogunbowale is another talented player on a struggling team, the Dallas Wings, who are second-worst in the league so far. Though the Wings might improve as young star Paige Bueckers continues to grow, Ogunbowale, nearing 30, may prefer trading to a team with better chances for success in the short term.
Myisha Hines-Allen’s Shift from Top to Bottom Team
Myisha Hines-Allen, who previously played for one of the league’s best teams, is now with one of the worst. After a down year on a weaker squad, the fit no longer seems ideal for her, making a trade to a more competitive team a scenario to consider before the deadline.
Tina Charles Could Seek Her First Championship
Tina Charles, one of the WNBA’s all-time greats, remains highly productive at 36 years old, averaging 16.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game on 41.6% shooting this season. Currently on the struggling Connecticut Sun, Charles has yet to win a championship. As she nears the end of her career, she might be traded to a contender willing to give her a shot at a title before retirement.
Tiffany Hayes’ Experience May Attract Contenders
Tiffany Hayes, 35, performs well for the Golden State Valkyries, averaging 12 points per game with 44.2% shooting from beyond the arc. Although the Valkyries have a presence of young players and may not prioritize keeping veterans, Hayes’ proven scoring ability could make her attractive to playoff-bound teams, while the Valkyries might capitalize by acquiring younger assets or draft picks.
Kate Martin’s Potential Move to Indiana Fever
Kate Martin, a rookie with the Golden State Valkyries, is believed by some to be an ideal fit for the Indiana Fever. While the Fever have been successful recently and may not focus on big roster changes this season, Martin’s youth and prior chemistry with Fever player Clark could add depth and energy, making this a plausible trade discussion.
Trades Will Shape Final Playoff Picture
As the August 7 trade deadline draws close, the WNBA’s competitive landscape faces potential significant shifts. Players like Marina Mabrey, Aaliyah Edwards, and Tina Charles represent key pieces that teams may exchange to improve their playoff chances or accelerate rebuilding. Moves involving veterans and emerging stars alike could reshape team cores and influence playoff outcomes as contending teams seek final additions while rebuilding teams look toward the future.