3 potential Kelsey Plum trade destinations, ranked

As the Los Angeles Sparks stand at a 10-17 record, and with the midseason WNBA trade deadline looming, it is expected that star guard Kelsey Plum may be traded. According to LA Times reporter Marisa Ingemi, multiple teams have shown interest in the 31-year-old guard, who has been a standout performer this season. Plum, averaging 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game, along with a 52.7% field goal percentage and 38.3% three-point shooting, has had an injury-riddled campaign, appearing in only 12 of 27 games due to lower leg injuries. Here are three potential trade destinations for Plum, ranked.

First-ranked destination: Golden State Valkyries

The Valkyries have been one of the most impressive storylines of the season, sitting at 19-9 and poised for a playoff run. With a league-best defense, it seems they could be missing one crucial piece - star power. While Gabby Williams, Veronica Burton, and Janelle Salaun have had outstanding seasons, none can create for themselves at the same volume as Plum.

With the possibility of re-signing in the offseason, as Plum is currently on an expiring $999,999 contract, the Valkyries could be making a move to win a title now. Valyries head coach Natalie Nakase, familiar with Plum from a previous coaching stint in Las Vegas, could make the midseason transition even smoother. Plum would integrate seamlessly alongside Burton, Williams, and the rest of the Golden State cast.

Second-ranked destination: Dallas Wings

The Dallas Wings may be going all-in ahead of the trade deadline, as general manager Curt Miller indicated during All-Star weekend. With Paige Bueckers and Jessica Shepard having big seasons, and rookie Azzi Fudd contributing strongly, the Wings could benefit from the addition of Plum on the offensive end, creating a lethal backcourt trio with Bueckers and Fudd.

However, some defensive concerns remain, even if Dallas decides to trade off Arike Ogunbowale, who is shooting poorly from the field, and Alanna Smith, who has struggled in a limited role this season. While the Wings have plenty of young players and draft assets to move, the decision to pursue this trade will depend on whether they believe it will propel them towards a championship run.

Third-ranked destination: Washington Mystics

The Mystics are in playoff contention, with a promising future ahead, thanks to a core led by Kiki Iriafen, Sonia Citron, and Shakira Austin. However, they are not currently championship contenders, making the decision to trade Plum a difficult one. Plum's addition could bolster their already strong defense, but given her history as a defensive liability, it's something to consider.

With a talented roster of young players and draft assets, the Mystics will have to weigh the potential benefits of adding Plum, who may not re-sign after the season. Ultimately, the decision whether to pursue this trade will depend on whether the Mystics believe it is worth going all-in now, with a year or two still standing between them and championship contention.