The WNBA's 2026 offseason was a whirlwind of personnel moves, with teams navigating a compressed timeline and a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) that brought significant changes to the salary structure. As the season progresses, it's becoming clear that some decisions were more successful than others. Here's a breakdown of the best and worst moves, along with my personal commentary and analysis.
Best Decisions
Dallas Signs Jessica Shepard
Explanation: The Dallas Wings needed to build a contender after a disappointing 2025 season, and they did so by signing Jessica Shepard to a two-year deal below the maximum salary. Shepard, an All-Star starter, has thrived in her new role, leading the league in rebounds and win shares.
Commentary: What makes this move particularly fascinating is how Dallas identified Shepard as a player who could excel in a larger role. Her overseas experience and ability to initiate the offense have made her a key asset for the team. In my opinion, the Wings got a steal by signing Shepard, and her production isn't likely to decline anytime soon.
Minnesota Signs Natasha Howard and Nia Coffey
Explanation: The Minnesota Lynx signed an entire starting frontcourt for less than the price of one max contract, targeting players who were underused or misused by other franchises. Natasha Howard, an All-Star starter, has experienced a resurgence at center, while Nia Coffey, a versatile forward, has had a career-best offensive season.
Commentary: What many people don't realize is that the Lynx have a history of optimizing players who were miscast or misused by other teams. This move showcases their ability to identify and develop talent. From my perspective, the Lynx have once again proven their expertise in team-building, and the savings on Howard's contract allowed them to sign another starting-level forward in Coffey.
Toronto Selects Marina Mabrey in the Expansion Draft
Explanation: The Toronto Tempo selected Marina Mabrey in the expansion draft, knowing that the Portland Fire couldn't take another unrestricted free agent. Mabrey has been one of the best guards in the league in Sandy Brondello's system, leading in points per game and made 3s.
Commentary: What makes this decision particularly interesting is how the Tempo used their sixth pick to acquire Mabrey, knowing that the Fire couldn't take another UFA. Mabrey's performance has been impressive, and she has played the most composed and disciplined basketball of her career. In my opinion, Mabrey is a valuable asset for the expansion Tempo, and her selection provides excellent value at her slot.
Worst Decisions
Dallas Signs Alanna Smith
Explanation: Alanna Smith, a veteran big, hasn't provided the defensive value the Dallas Wings hoped for when they signed her in the offseason. Her production has declined, and she's being paid as a maximum player.
Commentary: What this really suggests is that the Wings may have overpaid for Smith, and her performance hasn't justified the max contract. From my perspective, Smith's decline in production and defensive value makes her an anchor on the team's books, and the Wings may need to re-evaluate their decision to sign her.
Los Angeles Trades for Ariel Atkins and Signs Her to a Three-Year Deal
Explanation: The Los Angeles Sparks traded Rickea Jackson for Ariel Atkins without receiving additional draft compensation, and then signed Atkins to a three-year contract. Atkins hasn't provided the expected value, and the Sparks' perimeter defense remains poor.
Commentary: What many people don't realize is that the Sparks' decision to trade for Atkins without receiving additional draft compensation was a mistake. Atkins' production hasn't justified the contract, and the Sparks' roster has become older and more expensive. In my opinion, the Sparks' win-now move backfired, and they may need to re-evaluate their strategy for the upcoming free agency period.
Chicago Trades Its 2028 First-Round Pick for Jacy Sheldon
Explanation: The Chicago Sky traded their 2028 first-round pick for Jacy Sheldon, who has only averaged 21.8 minutes off the bench this season. The Sky had previously traded their 2025 pick and a 2027 swap for Atkins, and they moved Reese for what figures to be two late firsts.
Commentary: What this raises a deeper question is whether the Sky valued their draft capital appropriately. The decision to trade away a pick in the 2028 draft could age poorly, especially with the NCAA's new 5-in-5 rule. In my opinion, the Sky's pattern of trading away draft picks without receiving significant value in return is concerning, and it may impact their ability to build a strong team in the future.
The Jury is Still Out
Dallas Drafts Azzi Fudd
Explanation: The Dallas Wings drafted Azzi Fudd, and she has been an important piece of the team's success this season. Fudd has been an impactful defender and has chemistry with her teammates.
Commentary: What makes this decision particularly interesting is how Fudd's performance compares to that of No. 2 pick Miles in Minnesota. Miles is an outstanding playmaker who has elevated her teammates, while Fudd has been a solid contributor. In my opinion, the Wings' success this season will depend on Fudd's ability to continue her strong play, and it remains to be seen if she can overcome the comparison to Miles.
Seattle Gives Ezi Magbegor a Three-Year, $3.6 Million Deal
Explanation: The Seattle Storm signed Ezi Magbegor to a three-year contract, pairing her with second-year center Dominique Malonga. However, Magbegor's health issues have limited her playing time this season.
Commentary: What this raises a deeper question is whether the Storm's decision to sign Magbegor was a mistake. With the addition of Awa Fam, there is less room for a veteran center, and Magbegor's health issues may impact her ability to contribute. In my opinion, the Storm's timeline for contending is working in their favor, and they may be able to wait out Magbegor's contract if it proves to be a mistake.
New York Hires Chris DeMarco
Explanation: The New York Liberty hired Chris DeMarco as their head coach, but his lack of experience is starting to show. The team hasn't been consistent, and their rotations can seem to change on a whim.
Commentary: What this really suggests is that the Liberty may be going through growing pains after hiring a first-year head coach. Championship teams typically don't have dips like the Liberty have experienced. In my opinion, DeMarco's lack of experience is impacting the team's performance, and the Liberty may need to re-evaluate their decision to hire him.
