Kelsey Plum likely to leave Sparks amid trade deadline uncertainty
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 28, 2026, 3:37 PM
Last updated Jul 28, 2026
Kelsey Plum is expected to part ways with the Los Angeles Sparks following the 2026 season. With an expiring contract and a lack of urgency from the Sparks to trade her ahead of the August 2 deadline, questions arise about the franchise's future strategy. Historically, the Sparks have lost key players to free agency, raising concerns they may repeat past mistakes by not trading Plum, especially since they are struggling with a 10-16 record and aim to avoid a sixth consecutive playoff miss. If they do not trade her, the Sparks need to convince Plum to stay with a compelling plan for the future.
- •Kelsey Plum is unlikely to re-sign with the Sparks next season.
- •The Sparks are 10-16 and facing potential playoff elimination.
- •The trade deadline is August 2, and the Sparks have not engaged in meaningful talks.
- •Past departures include Chelsea Gray, Nneka Ogwumike, and Candace Parker.
- •The franchise is currently without a permanent general manager.
- 3:37 PMYahoo Sports — Sparks risk repeating familiar mistake with Kelsey Plum trade plan
"Plum is heading for the exit in LA, but timing is everything.
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