Minnesota Lynx Acquire Karlie Samuelson From Mystics for 2026 Draft Pick

The Minnesota Lynx have traded their 2026 WNBA Draft first-round pick to acquire forward Karlie Samuelson from the Washington Mystics. Samuelson, who averaged a career-high 8.4 points per game last season, is known for her shooting prowess, with a 39.8% success rate from beyond the arc. This move aligns with the Lynx's strategy of adding experienced players to complement their existing core, including Defensive Player of the Year Napheesa Collier and All-Star Kayla McBride. Meanwhile, the Mystics are in a rebuilding phase and have secured multiple first-round picks, including three in the upcoming 2025 draft, as they focus on developing young talent. This trade and the movements across the league highlight the Lynx's commitment to immediate competitiveness while the Mystics build for the future. The 2025 WNBA Draft is scheduled to occur shortly after this trade announcement.