Seattle Storm Center Li Yueru Requests Trade Over Playing Time

Seattle Storm center Li Yueru has requested a trade due to dissatisfaction with her limited playing time behind other post players like Ezi Magbegor and rookie Dominique Malonga. Li, a 6-foot-7 player from China, has averaged 2.9 points and 1.6 rebounds in 9.1 minutes per game this season after being acquired in a three-team trade that sent Jewell Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces. The Chinese national team reportedly prefers Li to have a larger role in the WNBA to maintain her standing, adding pressure on the Storm amid her decision to stay in the U.S. instead of participating in the Asia Cup. Despite flashes of potential, Seattle's depth in the frontcourt has limited Li's minutes, leading to her trade request that could make her a valuable asset for teams like the Dallas Wings or Las Vegas Aces seeking frontcourt reinforcements. The Storm have yet to respond officially to her request as they manage a crowded roster with multiple talented post players.