The Las Vegas Aces placed the “core” designation on All-Star guard Kelsey Plum, an unrestricted free agent, the team made official on Saturday.
The designation guarantees Plum a one-year, fully guaranteed supermax contract worth $249,244 while restricting her ability to negotiate directly with other teams without the Aces’ permission. While this move ensures the Aces retain control of her contract for the 2025 season, it doesn’t guarantee Plum’s return to Las Vegas. Instead, it allows the team to receive compensation should a trade occur.
Plum, 30, has played her entire career with the Aces after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 WNBA Draft. She is a three-time All-Star and two-time WNBA champion who averaged 17.8 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.6 rebounds last season while shooting 42.3% from the field and 36.8% from three-point range.
Despite her consistent production, Las Vegas faces salary cap challenges that could complicate their ability to keep Plum long-term. She earned $200,000 last season as the team finished with a 27-13 record and reached the postseason.
The implications of the core designation could lead to significant roster decisions for Las Vegas. If Plum remains with the Aces, the team will need to navigate tight financial constraints, but her return would ensure they remain a top contender for the 2025 WNBA title.
Potential West Coast Moves
Several intriguing scenarios could unfold if Kelsey Plum decides to explore other options. For instance, a move to the West Coast
aligns with the current dynamics of the league. A sign-and-trade could send Plum to the Seattle Storm, where she would pair with a new core while another star, such as Jewell Loyd, moves to Las Vegas to keep the Aces competitive.
Another potential destination is the Los Angeles Sparks, where Plum could play a pivotal role in revitalizing a Sparks team looking to regain its footing. However, these moves might not position Plum for immediate title contention in 2025, a factor that could weigh heavily in her decision.
For Plum, staying with the Aces may offer the clearest path to another championship, but navigating the financial realities of such a deal could prove challenging.
Could the Valkyries Make a Move?
Another intriguing option is the Golden State Valkyries, the WNBA’s newest expansion team. The Valkyries, armed with a league-high $1.2 million in cap space, are well-positioned to make a significant push for a high-profile player like Plum.
Golden State could explore packaging the No. 5 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft as part of a trade to bring Plum on board. Such a move would not only establish Plum as the face of the franchise but also reunite her with former Aces assistant coach Natalie Nakase, now the head coach of the Valkyries.
The Valkyries are entering free agency with the potential to disrupt the league’s balance of power. Whether they aim to land a star like Plum or force other teams to adjust financially, their presence is expected to shake up the offseason.
A Decision With Major Implications
Whether Kelsey Plum stays in Las Vegas, moves to the West Coast, or becomes the centerpiece of the Valkyries, her decision will significantly shape the WNBA landscape heading into the 2025 season. For the Aces, retaining Plum offers the best path to defending their title, but balancing her contract within their salary cap remains a pressing concern.
