The Washington Mystics are actively exploring trade options for Aaliyah Edwards, a promising forward and former first-round pick, as they navigate roster constraints ahead of the upcoming WNBA expansion draft. This move comes amid heightened interest from multiple teams eager to acquire Edwards, who has shown significant potential both domestically and internationally.
According to reports by ESPN’s Kendra Andrews and Alexa Philippou, the Mystics are fielding inquiries from several teams regarding Edwards, who was drafted sixth overall in 2024. The decision to consider trading Edwards is not a reflection of her abilities but rather a strategic maneuver to maximize the team’s assets before the expansion draft reshapes the league’s landscape.
Aaliyah Edwards: A Rising Star
Edwards, a standout at the University of Connecticut, has been a key figure in women’s basketball, representing Canada in two Olympic Games. Her prowess on the court is underscored by her agility, shooting skills, and defensive capabilities. Despite being sidelined by an injury early in the 2025 season, Edwards’s potential remains undeniable.
During her time with the Mystics, Edwards demonstrated her ability to compete at a high level, contributing to a team that finished the 2024 season with a 14-26 record. Her offseason participation in the Unrivaled league further showcased her talent, as she advanced to the final round of a prestigious 1-on-1 tournament.
Strategic Roster Decisions
The decision to trade Edwards is influenced by the Mystics’ recent draft acquisitions and the unexpected rise of rookie Kiki Iriafen. Injuries opened the door for Iriafen to shine, and her performance has exceeded expectations, leaving the Mystics with a surplus of talent in the frontcourt.
With the expansion draft approaching, the Mystics face the challenge of protecting their assets. Leaving Edwards unprotected could result in her being selected by the Toronto Tempo, a team likely to capitalize on her Canadian roots. Trading her now allows the Mystics to secure valuable returns rather than risk losing her for nothing.
Market Value and Potential Suitors
Edwards’s market value is considerable, given her experience and skill set. Teams seeking to bolster their frontcourt depth view her as a valuable addition. Her ability to handle physical play, combined with her defensive acumen and developing outside shot, makes her an attractive prospect.
“It would be shocking to see her be traded for anything less than a future first-round pick,” experts suggest, highlighting her potential to become a future All-Star.
Potential trade packages could include future draft picks or rights to players, offering the Mystics flexibility in shaping their roster for the future. Edwards’s new team would likely prioritize her development and seek to protect her in the expansion draft.
Looking Ahead
For Edwards, the prospect of joining a new team presents an opportunity to further her career and make an immediate impact. While a return to Canada with the Toronto Tempo remains a possibility, her focus is on contributing to whichever team she joins next.
The Mystics’ decision reflects the complexities of managing a competitive roster in a league poised for growth. As teams continue to express interest in Edwards, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining her next destination and the Mystics’ strategic direction.
As the WNBA prepares for expansion, the trade market is expected to remain active, with teams like the Mystics seeking to optimize their rosters while navigating the challenges of player protection and development. Edwards’s future, though uncertain, is undoubtedly bright, with the potential to leave a lasting mark on the league.
