The New York Liberty have expressed interest in acquiring Sparks star Kelsey Plum as the WNBA trade deadline approaches on Sunday. Plum has emerged as a sought-after trade candidate following reports that she does not intend to re-sign with the Los Angeles Sparks after the current season. This news has placed her at the center of a sweepstakes involving multiple teams.
Other teams reportedly in pursuit of Plum include the Phoenix Mercury and the Atlanta Dream. The Sparks, who acquired Plum in a significant trade prior to the 2025 season, including the No. 2 overall pick used on Dominique Malonga, are in a position to seek assets in return before she potentially enters free agency. The Sparks are currently 10-17, sitting 11th in the league standings and five games behind the eighth-place Liberty.
Plum, who has been sidelined since June 21 with a lower left leg injury, has been a high performer this season. She ranks second in the league in scoring, averaging 23.9 points per game, along with 2.2 rebounds and 6.4 assists over 12 games. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Plum stated she is not taking the trade discussions personally and intends to play in the Sparks' next game, scheduled shortly after Sunday's trade deadline.
The Liberty, who entered Saturday's game against the Mercury with a 16-13 record, have been actively engaged in trade conversations around the league. The potential addition of Plum could bolster the Liberty's offense, though sources indicate it would not address the team's defensive challenges. New York is also dealing with injuries, with Leonie Fiebich recovering from a left foot injury and Satou Sabally in concussion protocol. The team may opt to stay pat and focus on player health for a playoff push.