NEW YORK – In a surprising move just hours before the WNBA's trade deadline, the Connecticut Sun and Washington Mystics have completed a blockbuster deal centered on two of the league's most promising rookies. The Sun, a top contender in the Eastern Conference, have acquired forward Aaliyah Edwards from the Mystics. In return, Washington receives guard Jacy Sheldon and future draft considerations.

The trade, confirmed by both teams on Thursday afternoon, reshapes the immediate ambitions and long-term outlook for both franchises. For the Sun, it's a clear win-now move aimed at bolstering their frontcourt for a deep playoff run. For the Mystics, the deal accelerates their rebuilding process, adding a foundational backcourt piece and valuable draft capital.

Sun Bolster Frontcourt for Championship Push

The Connecticut Sun (20-8) have been one of the league's elite teams this season, powered by the formidable duo of Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner. The acquisition of Aaliyah Edwards, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, provides them with crucial depth, physicality, and rebounding in the paint.

Edwards, a former University of Connecticut standout, has had a solid rookie campaign, averaging 8.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game for the Mystics. Her tenacity and familiarity with the region are expected to make her an immediate fit in Head Coach Stephanie White’s system. The move signals the Sun's commitment to maximizing their current championship window, adding a young, powerful forward who can learn from veterans like Thomas and contribute meaningful minutes off the bench as they gear up for the postseason.

Mystics Pivot to the Future with Sheldon and Draft Assets

For the Washington Mystics (5-23), who are in the midst of a significant rebuild following the retirement of key franchise players, the trade represents a strategic pivot. While parting with a talent like Edwards is difficult, they acquire Jacy Sheldon, the No. 5 overall pick in the same draft class. Sheldon, a dynamic guard from Ohio State, has shown flashes of scoring prowess and playmaking ability with the Sun, averaging 7.2 points in a more limited role.

In Washington, Sheldon is expected to receive significant playing time and become a central figure in the team's future plans. According to reports from ESPN, the Mystics also secured the right to swap first-round picks with the Sun in the 2026 WNBA Draft, a critical asset that gives them flexibility and upside in the coming years. This move allows them to build a new core centered around young guards and future draft selections.

A Rare Rookie-for-Rookie Swap

It is uncommon in the WNBA to see two top-10 draft picks from the same class traded for one another midway through their rookie seasons. The deal highlights the differing timelines of the two organizations.

The Sun are capitalizing on their veteran talent, adding a player in Edwards who fits an immediate positional need. The Mystics, on the other hand, are stockpiling assets and acquiring a player in Sheldon whose timeline aligns better with their long-term vision. Both players now face the challenge of integrating into new teams and systems with the playoffs just around the corner.

The trade deadline has now passed, solidifying rosters across the league. For the Sun, the addition of Edwards could be the final piece in their championship puzzle. For the Mystics, the arrival of Sheldon marks a new chapter in their journey back to contention.