Upcoming WNBA Trade Proposals Potential to Stir Up the Basketball Association in 2025
Marina Mabrey on the Move?
As the 2025 WNBA trade deadline approaches on August 7, several potential trade scenarios are shaping up involving key players. One of the most notable is the potential move of Marina Mabrey from the Connecticut Sun.
Mabrey, who has averaged 14.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and four assists in 18 games this season, requested a trade last offseason and is heading towards unrestricted free agency. With the Sun struggling with a 3-20 record, a deadline deal seems likely.
The Seattle Storm, currently competing for home-court advantage in the playoffs and owning multiple first-round picks in 2026, are a likely destination for Mabrey. She could provide a realistic upgrade for the Storm's backcourt, strengthening their push for the postseason.
Aaliyah Edwards and Arike Ogunbowale: Potential Trade Bait
Aaliyah Edwards and Arike Ogunbowale are also being mentioned as potential trade candidates, though specific scenarios are less detailed. Edwards, a young forward with rebounding and size potential, could attract interest from playoff contenders looking to bolster their frontcourt depth.
Ogunbowale's future trade prospects would depend on team needs and market value, but no concrete scenarios have been reported as of the deadline.
Azura Stevens: A Valuable Asset
Azura Stevens is another player of interest, with her ability to contribute on the glass and as a floor spacer making her a valuable asset. However, no explicit trade possibilities have been reported as of the deadline.
Trade Activity in the WNBA
Trade activity in the WNBA is often limited due to the hard salary cap and competitive playoff positioning for most teams (10 of 13 teams are close to playoff spots). Trades often aim at fine-tuning playoff rosters rather than blockbuster moves.
The Minnesota Lynx and Seattle Storm are among teams actively looking to improve, with precedent trades including Minnesota acquiring DiJonai Carrington and Seattle acquiring Brittney Sykes, indicating a pattern of strategic player acquisitions at the deadline.
Potential Trades
- A trade of Edwards to the Dallas Wings might involve the Mystics receiving a 2027 first-round pick and Aziaha James.
- The Golden State Valkyries, playoff contenders in their inaugural season with a 14-14 record, are in need of someone to replace Kayla Thornton's production. If a deal is struck, Mabrey could become the veteran focal point for the Valkyries, who have an electric atmosphere and lead the league in attendance.
As the deadline approaches, keep an eye on these potential trades and more as teams look to make moves that will give them a competitive edge in the postseason.
- Marina Mabrey's potential move from the Connecticut Sun could strengthen the Seattle Storm's backcourt, helping them secure home-court advantage in the playoffs.
- Aaliyah Edwards, with her rebounding and size potential, could attract interest from playoff contenders looking to bolster their frontcourt depth.
- Azura Stevens, who is a valuable asset due to her ability to contribute on the glass and as a floor spacer, has not yet been linked to any explicit trade possibilities.
- The Golden State Valkyries, in need of a replacement for Kayla Thornton's production, might be considering a deal for Marina Mabrey to become their veteran focal point.