The Los Angeles Sparks are facing another disappointing WNBA season, with their playoff hopes effectively dashed and mounting calls for a significant organizational overhaul. For the sixth consecutive year, the franchise—once a three-time champion—has struggled, prompting discussions about a possible rebuild centered around trading star guard Kelsey Plum.
Plum, who averages 24 points per game when healthy and is one of the league’s premier scorers, missed half the games this season due to injury. Despite her impact and popularity, insiders argue that moving her ahead of Sunday’s trade deadline could be a necessary step. Her contract expires at the end of the season, and reports suggest she is reluctant to remain with a rebuilding team during her prime years. As the Sparks’ most valuable asset at 31, Plum could fetch significant returns in young talent and draft picks from playoff contenders.
Trade advocates also suggest the Sparks should embrace a full tanking strategy to secure a top selection in the 2027 WNBA draft, with particular focus on USC standout JuJu Watkins. Convincing Watkins to enter the draft early could provide the franchise with a much-needed infusion of talent, making the pursuit of the top pick an organizational priority.
Beyond Plum, attention has turned toward other underperforming veterans, including Ariel Atkins and Erica Wheeler, who were part of last offseason’s attempt to assemble a veteran squad capable of immediate contention. With only four players—Cameron Brink, Rae Burrell, Dearica Hamby, and Nneka Ogwumike—deemed likely to return, the Sparks face a near-complete roster rebuild. Plum’s departure, proponents argue, could allow developing players more opportunities to grow and make a greater impact.
The front office is not immune to scrutiny, with former general manager Raegan Pebley already gone and coach Lynne Roberts’ future uncertain. Leadership replacements are expected to focus on veteran WNBA expertise rather than college standouts, emphasizing experience in building a sustainable, competitive team.
Farhan Zaidi, special advisor to Sparks owner Mark Walter, acknowledged the team's struggles and signaled openness to bold moves. “We pushed in a lot of chips this year, and we had good reason to do that, but the reality is it hasn’t gone as we’d hoped or expected,” Zaidi said. He emphasized a necessary shift to a long-term outlook, noting the franchise cannot afford to remain a middle-tier team.
Zaidi also expressed confidence in the fan base’s understanding, suggesting supporters recognize that short-term sacrifices might be required to return the Sparks to championship contention. “I think it can happen quickly,” he added, alluding to examples of other teams finding rapid success in the league.
With a strong finish to this season unlikely, the Sparks appear poised to make a decisive move that could reshape the franchise’s trajectory. Trading Kelsey Plum and embracing a rebuild may be unpopular but could be essential for reviving the team’s fortunes after years of underachievement.