Kelsey Plum was recently traded to the Los Angeles Sparks as part of a three-team deal. It was a big trade without question, and it represents a significant change for Plum. She has only played for the Las Vegas Aces' organization in her WNBA career, so it will be intriguing to see how she performs with her new team.
Let's take a look at three predictions for Kelsey Plum with the Sparks following the trade.
3. Kelsey Plum sets new career-high in points per game during 2025 season
Playing with the Aces provided Plum with plenty of tremendous opportunities. After all, she was able to win multiple championships with the team. However, A'ja Wilson is arguably the best player in the WNBA. The Aces featured multiple stars around Wilson, so Plum wasn't always a primary option in the gameplan.
Plum's career-high in points per game is 20.2 points per outing, something she accomplished during the 2022 season. Plum also finished third in WNBA MVP voting that season. In 2023 and 2024, though, Plum's scoring production declined. She averaged 18.7 points per game in 2023 and 17.8 points per outing in 2024.
Part of the concern was simply less efficient shooting. Her field goal attempts and three-point attempts did not decline in 2023 and 2024 as compared to 2022. As mentioned, however, Wilson led the Aces' offense. Plum may have an opportunity to lead the Sparks' offensive attack alongside Dearica Hamby and Cameron Brink, which could lead to more opportunities and even more efficiency.
Confidence goes a long way in any sport. Will Plum be the No. 1 scoring option in Los Angeles? It remains to be seen, but if so then her confidence could increase which will only help matters.
2. Plum helps Sparks reach postseason
Will the Sparks be able to go from being the worst team in the league in 2024 to reaching the WNBA postseason in 2025? With Plum on the roster, it could happen.
No, this Sparks team is not ready to compete for a championship. The roster still needs more depth. Nevertheless, LA should be able to play at a more consistent level with Plum joining Hamby on the roster. Brink also missed most of the 2024 campaign due to injury, so if she returns then the Sparks will certainly be in a better position.
Look for the Sparks to sneak into the postseason in 2025.
1. Plum, Sparks agree to contract extension
Reports have suggested that Plum is open to remaining with the Sparks for future seasons. The Sparks surrendered the No. 2 overall pick as part of the three-team trade, so one has to imagine that they will try to negotiate a long-term deal with Plum. If the former Aces guard is indeed open to a contract extension, a deal could get completed at some point down the road.