On Saturday, the Las Vegas Aces made the expected move to core Kelsey Plum, via Sara Jane Gamelli of Ballislife.com. The move was not surprising by any means, but it certainly did not stop the trade rumors that have swirled around Plum since the 2024 season came to an end. Of course, Plum would have been a free agent had Las Vegas not made the move, so if anything their decision to core her may increase trade rumors.
Plum has yet to sign an extension with the Aces. Las Vegas could attempt to agree to a long-term deal with her, but that may be difficult given the Aces' other contracts. In order to avoid the possibility of losing Plum in free agency in future seasons, trading her now could appeal to the Aces.
Trade rumors have swirled around the star guard all offseason long. She was initially expected to participate in the Unrivaled Basketball league, but Plum ultimately opted out. Although Plum did not say it had anything to do with the trade rumors, perhaps the whispers played a role. Focusing on a different league in the offseason could prove to be difficult amid the rumors.
The Golden State Valkyries, an expansion franchise that will make its WNBA debut in 2025, has been mentioned as a possible trade suitor for Plum. Golden State is looking for a star to build around after the expansion draft, and Plum may be an option.
At 30 years old, Plum has demonstrated the ability to play at an All-Star level in the WNBA. She was selected to her third consecutive All-Star team in 2024 despite a down year by he standards. Plum has averaged just under 19 points per outing and 4.6 assists per game over the past three seasons. She is a talented guard capable of playing a pivotal role on offense.
Whether it is the Valkyries or another team, there is a chance that Plum could end up being moved before the 2025 campaign. Losing Plum would be a difficult blow for the Aces, but it would allow them to move on while building around A'ja Wilson.
A Plum trade likely wouldn't come to fruition until later in the offseason. It will be a potential storyline worth monitoring, however. Trading Plum would be a massive move, as the All-Star would provide an important boost for her new team if a deal ends up happening.