WNBA: Possible Key Trades Before the Deadline, Mabrey to Storm

WNBA Market Heats Up: Possible Moves Before the Deadline

The deadline for trades in the WNBA, set for August 7, may not bring big surprises. The strict salary cap makes mid-season deals difficult, and with most teams still fighting for the playoffs, the priority is to strengthen the team rather than get rid of talent. However, teams can make strategic moves. A notable trade has already been finalized between the Las Vegas Aces and the Dallas Wings, with NaLyssa Smith joining the Aces. Minnesota Lynx also strengthened for last year’s final with Myisha Hines-Allen. Here’s a look at some realistic transfers that could change the WNBA landscape heading into the playoffs and beyond.

Marina Mabrey requested a trade last season. Could she be traded before the 2025 trade deadline on August 7?Storm adds Mabrey to reinforce the backcourt

Seattle Storm receives: Marina Mabrey
Connecticut Sun receives: Alysha Clark and Katie Lou Samuelson, as well as a 2026 first-round pick

Following Jewell Loyd’s transfer to Las Vegas this offseason, the situation of the Storm is interesting as the trade deadline approaches. Seattle is competing for home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs and holds three first-round picks in the 2026 draft. This could give Seattle the opportunity to improve their roster now and, at the same time, think about the future. Brittney Sykes would be a great addition for the Storm, but might not be available. With the Sun in a slump and Mabrey about to become an unrestricted free agent, a deal before the trade deadline makes sense.

The biggest challenge for Seattle is creating salary space, as they would have to send a considerable salary in return. This could involve Alysha Clark, whose veteran presence would be painful for the Storm. However, if Seattle wants to win a playoff series, the team could benefit from more scoring threats. Mabrey, with her shooting and playmaking ability, would be a great upgrade.

Edwards returns to Connecticut

Connecticut Sun receives: Aaliyah Edwards
Washington Mystics receives: Bria Hartley, a 2026 first-round pick (the worst between Chicago and Phoenix) and a 2027 second-round pick

The Mystics are working to trade Edwards, who has been surpassed on the depth chart by Kiki Iriafen. Edwards has been more productive this season and, if the Sun could get the former UConn Huskies star, it would be a great addition to their young talent project.

Washington Mystics reserves Emily Engstler, left, and Aaliyah Edwards could be traded.

Lynx strengthen for the playoffs

Minnesota Lynx receive: Emily Engstler
Washington Mystics receive: Diamond Miller, a 2027 second-round pick

Engstler could be one of the most interesting players to follow before the market closes. Her ability to rebound, steal the ball and block at an impressive rate makes her a valuable acquisition. This deal would send her to Minnesota, who could ask Engstler to play on the perimeter. On the other hand, Washington would bet on Miller, the number 2 pick in the 2023 draft.

In Indiana, Myisha Hines-Allen could be the third center behind starters Aliyah Boston and Natasha Howard.

Fever improves its inside game

Indiana Fever receives: Myisha Hines-Allen
Dallas Wings receives: Damiris Dantas, a 2026 second-round pick

Hines-Allen could be traded mid-season. After losing her starting position at the end of June, Dallas hopes to get Maddy Siegrist back. As the third center behind Aliyah Boston and Natasha Howard, Hines-Allen should be an improvement for the team.