2 Mystics players who won't return next season after failing to reach playoffs

The Washington Mystics utilized a late season push to turn themselves into a fringe contender. Washington ultimately missed the postseason, though, and they are now preparing for the offseason. So will the Mystics be aggressive in free agency?

Washington features an intriguing roster. They are close to becoming a true contender. The Mystics unquestionably need to add another reliable scorer or two, but this is a team with serious potential. With that being said, Washington may lose some players this offseason. For the most part, Washington's roster is set but there will likely be at least a couple of departures.

Here are two players who probably will not return for the 2025 season.

2. Sug Sutton

Sutton, a 25-year-old guard, appeared in only seven games in 2024. She began her WNBA career in Washington during the 2020 campaign, but did not play in 2021 or 2022. Sutton joined the Phoenix Mercury in 2023 and would stay in Phoenix to begin 2024. However, she ended up returning to Washington.

Sutton's role with the Mystics was limited, as she averaged only 7.3 points per game. Could Washington bring Sutton back? Sure, as having extra guard depth would help the roster. However, there will not be any urgency to keep Sutton.

The Mystics may opt to move on and Sutton would likely benefit from a fresh start.

1. Shatori Walker-Kimbrough

Walker-Kimbrough is the Mystics only unrestricted free agent. The 29-year-old spent the first three years of her WNBA career in Washington before heading to Phoenix for the 2020 campaign. In 2021, she played with the Connecticut Sun as well as the Mystics.

Walker-Kimbrough has played with the Mystics ever since.

She has been quite impactful. No, Walker-Kimbrough will not make or break a roster, but she certainly can make an impact. In 2024, she averaged 7.5 points per game while recording 22.1 minutes per outing. She also appeared in all 40 games, drawing two starts.

There is a chance that Walker-Kimbrough may want to sign with a new team in hopes of receiving a more notable role. She has starting experience, so perhaps a team seeking a guard may display interest in her this offseason.

Meanwhile, the Mystics will likely place their focus on adding scoring help. Washington and Walker-Kimbrough may end up discussing a reunion, but it would not be surprising to see the veteran in a new uniform in 2025.