With the WNBA trade deadline fast approaching on August 2, The Athletic's WNBA Senior Writer Annie Costabile has dropped some of the current whispers from around the league. If the rumors hold substance, then the Phoenix Mercury could be about to make a move for Alanna Smith's signature, leaving the Dallas Wings with a key opportunity to address their defensive frailties with the acquisition of Natasha Mack.
According to Annie Costabile, "One player who could be a target for U'Ren and the Mercury as they look to salvage the 2026 is Dallas Wings forward Alanna Smith."
If Phoenix is looking to freshen its roster and believes that Alanna Smith is the player to change their fortunes, then it could offer the Dallas Wings a way out of the forward's expensive contract.
A swift resolution could be beneficial for all parties
The Wings and Alanna Smith appeared to be a match made in heaven before the 2026 WNBA season began. Smith was the defensive anchor that the franchise craved, and Dallas could offer the forward a tempting financial package. Alas, the 29-year-old's performances have not been up to the required standard, leaving the Wings with a defensive void to fill.
So far this campaign, the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year has struggled to replicate the form that she exhibited for the Minnesota Lynx just one year ago. Over 20 appearances, Smith has made just seven starts, averaging 3.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, 0.7 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game -- her lowest contribution on both ends of the floor since 2021.
For one reason or another, this relationship is yet to blossom, but the Phoenix Mercury are reportedly ready to offer Alanna Smith a career lifeline. The Dallas Wings must play hardball and acquire a player who can put them into championship contention.
Natasha Mack must be included in any deal
The Dallas Wings are trending in the correct direction with Paige Bueckers at the heart of this team. However, the roster is still missing a stalwart who can anchor Dallas' defensive blueprint. If Alanna Smith does head to Phoenix, Natasha Mack should be included in any trade discussions.
Annie Costabile stated that, "The Mercury have $857,740 in cap space remaining this season, which means they'd have to send salary back to Dallas or otherwise clear room to land Smith."
Phoenix will have several options to make this deal happen, but the Dallas Wings don't need to appease their opponents' needs; they must focus on how this transaction can suit them. If Natasha Mack is the answer, then Smith's three-year, $3.75 million contract would require an extra player to be included in the deal -- such as Lexie Held. Nevertheless, this trade is still very realistic.
Mack is the exact profile of player that Dallas requires to make the next step in their journey. Standing at six feet and four inches, Mack has established a reputation as a physical big who can bully her assignment in the paint. This season alone, the 28-year-old has averaged 7.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game.
Adding Mack to the lineup not only strengthens the Wings' resilience but also relieves much of the defensive pressure placed on Jessica Shepard's shoulders. While Shepard has cemented herself in prime position to claim the Most Improved Player accolade, protecting the basket is not one of her strongest attributes.
If Alanna Smith is a target for the Phoenix Mercury, then the Dallas Wings must take advantage of their opponent's misfortunes and force them to make a trade that they may not have been willing to do at the start of the season. Natasha Mack could be the final piece to the Paige Bueckers jigsaw.
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