WNBA Trade Deadline Passes with Minimal Moves, Aces Stand Pat, Sky Considers Targets

As the WNBA trade deadline approaches, the Las Vegas Aces have opted to stand pat, showing confidence in their current roster to deliver consistent performance despite some inconsistencies this season. The Aces had opportunities to make moves, such as pursuing guard Brittney Sykes, but salary cap constraints and prior trades of future first-round picks limited their ability to act. Similarly, the Chicago Sky face challenges as they sit 6.5 games behind the playoff cutoff, debating whether to pursue trades to bolster their defense, particularly on the perimeter, or continue developing their current lineup. The Sky have explored potential trades, including swapping guards with the Washington Mystics, aiming to add depth and improve their chances for a late-season push. This cautious approach by both teams highlights the strategic decisions franchises must make at the deadline, balancing immediate needs against long-term roster management. Meanwhile, in baseball, the Cincinnati Reds retained top prospect pitcher Chase Petty despite his struggles this season, a decision that could be questioned if he fails to improve, especially as the Reds sought impactful trades to strengthen their lineup.