In a move that shook the WNBA, the biggest trade in league history, made in February, continues to have a significant impact on the playoffs. This deal involved four teams and 13 players, as well as five draft picks. Despite injuries and team changes, at least one player involved in this trade will be crowned champion.
The Impact of the Mega-Trade in the WNBA
The Phoenix Mercury, one of the central teams in this exchange, benefited by acquiring Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, two All-Stars who arrived via a “sign-and-trade”. On the other hand, the Indiana Fever added Sophie Cunningham, who averaged 8.6 points per game before suffering an injury that sidelined her for the season. The Dallas Wings and the Connecticut Sun, although they didn’t make great strides in the regular season, also played an important role in the playoffs. The Wings, for example, made an impact in the semifinals by trading two of their key players, NaLyssa Smith and DiJonai Carrington. The Minnesota Lynx, who were reinforced with Carrington in early August, are now facing the player’s absence due to a foot sprain. However, the possibility of a final matchup between the Aces and the Lynx adds excitement to the competition.Phoenix’s Road to the Semifinals
The Phoenix Mercury, with an eye on 2025 for free agency, sought to reinforce their roster. With the departure of Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner, the team had room under the salary cap to add several high-caliber players. The arrival of Thomas and Sabally was crucial to the team’s success. To finalize these signings, the Mercury made trades involving several key players. The team sent Rebecca Allen and Natasha Cloud to Connecticut for Thomas and Tyasha Harris. In addition, in a deal with Dallas and Indiana, the Mercury obtained Sabally and other players. Despite the changes, Sabally and Thomas’s talent was fundamental in Phoenix reaching the semifinals for the first time since 2021. Thomas, who finished third in the MVP voting, and Sabally have proven to be key pieces for the team.
