Two-time WNBA champion Jordin Canada is likely to pursue a sign-and-trade deal from the Los Angeles Sparks after the team designated her as a core player on Saturday, sources have informed ESPN’s Andraya Carter.
Canada, who was part of the Seattle Storm’s championship-winning teams in 2018 and 2020, has established herself as one of the league’s top perimeter defenders. Over her six-year career, she has averaged 8.8 points, 4.7 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. Last season, she posted career-high numbers in points (13.3), assists (6.0), and three-point shooting percentage (33.3%), making her a candidate for the Most Improved Player award.
Despite her impressive stats and defensive prowess, Canada’s future with the Sparks became uncertain when the team designated her as a core player. This designation means that the Sparks offered her a fully guaranteed, one-year contract at the supermax salary, with the team retaining exclusive negotiating rights. However, Canada’s desire to explore other options necessitates a sign-and-trade deal, allowing the Sparks to receive assets in return for her departure.
With a limited market for point guards in free agency, Canada is expected to attract significant interest from other teams. The official negotiation period for free agency begins on Sunday, with players eligible to sign contracts starting February 1st.
