The Phoenix Mercury are stuck in WNBA purgatory. They certainly aren't elite enough to challenge for a championship, but aren't catastrophic enough to land in a lottery position. A full rebuild isn't needed, and with a talented star like Alyssa Thomas, Phoenix can still salvage this roster. More importantly, Thomas' lucrative contract won't be easy to trade, meaning the franchise has no choice but to remain ambitious in the offseason.
Last season was a disaster for Phoenix, finishing the year outside of the playoff spots with a 16-28 record. Despite having Thomas, Kahleah Copper, and DeWanna Bonner on the roster, the team's performances lacked consistency, cohesion, and defensive stability. Frankly, it was a mess.
However, the Mercury should remain positive about what this squad could become. Thomas and Copper are two of the WNBA's most exciting talents. Kelsey Plum might be out of contract, but having the star in the building allowed the franchise to create a relationship ahead of free agency. There are reasons for Phoenix to be optimistic; they must be aggressive in their recruitment.
Alyssa Thomas is going nowhere
At 34 years old, it's hard to imagine Alyssa Thomas will have many suitors lining up for her signature, especially after signing a three-year, $3,600,000 contract at the start of the 2026 season. The difference between that version of Phoenix and the current one is stark. Coming off the back of the WNBA Finals, Thomas would have fully believed the Mercury were in prime position for another championship tilt.
Unless the change in circumstances forces Thomas into a trade request, the six-time All-Star will still be an integral part of the franchise's plans moving forward. Even in an off-year for Phoenix, Thomas averaged 14.3 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game. It is almost impossible for a team to find this level of versatility and production; the Mercury should be looking to add talent alongside the Maryland alum, not move her to a rival.
Any recruitment that Phoenix undertakes this offseason must prioritise high-level players. If Kelsey Plum is a serious option, they must swiftly tie up this deal. But this can't be the franchise's only move. Kelsey Mitchell, Napheesa Collier, and Jackie Young are all poised to enter free agency, and the front office should aspire to build a roster featuring players of this calibre for the 2027 season.
There is no need for the Phoenix Mercury to hit the panic button and reconstruct the roster. Alyssa Thomas is highly unlikely to leave the franchise, meaning the front office must remain ambitious and back their star player. With a player of Thomas' quality on the roster, the team will always have championship capabilities, but she must be partnered with quality options.
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