WNBA power rankings: Best pending free agents for every team this offseason

With over a month remaining in the 2026 WNBA regular season, franchises are already strategizing for the forthcoming offseason, particularly focusing on pending free agents whose contracts will expire ahead of the 2027 campaign. The league's new collective bargaining agreement has raised salary ceilings, ushering in the possibility of intense bidding battles for top talent, as teams look to build competitive rosters.

Among the most sought-after unrestricted free agents is Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx. Having spent her entire eight-year career with the franchise, Collier brings a decorated resume that includes five All-Star selections, four All-WNBA nods, and the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year award. After a $1.4 million one-year deal amid her recovery from ankle surgery, Collier approaches her 30th birthday and remains a cornerstone if the Lynx hope to maintain championship contention alongside rookie standout Olivia Miles.

Similarly valuable is Kelsey Mitchell of the Indiana Fever, also on a one-year $1.4 million agreement. As the sole member of the Fever’s core trio at risk of free agency—since teammate Caitlin Clark is still on her rookie contract and Aliyah Boston is locked through 2029—Mitchell’s performance this season has been career-best. Averaging over 24 points per game on efficient shooting percentages, Mitchell’s retention is crucial for the Fever’s long-term prospects.

The Las Vegas Aces' offseason plans appear centered on Jackie Young, whose five All-Star appearances and two All-WNBA selections underscore her importance. Young’s career-high averages in points and assists underscore her pivotal role in three championship runs since 2019. With key players like A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Jewell Loyd under contract through 2028, the Aces aim to retain their core while navigating Young’s pending free agency.

For teams like the Atlanta Dream, roster stability is more assured, with foundational players locked through 2028. However, the status of role players such as Sika Kone, who sees limited minutes, is less certain, and she is unlikely to command substantial contract offers.

The New York Liberty's potential free agent discussion highlights Pauline Astier, a French guard who has emerged as a starter and efficient scorer, boasting over 55% shooting from the floor. As a restricted free agent, Astier’s future hinges on how competitive offers from other teams might be, with the Liberty having the right to match.

Washington Mystics’ offseason outlook includes Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, a recent acquisition whose impact in the latter part of the season will inform the team's decision-making. While the Mystics’ primary roster is under contract beyond 2026, Laney-Hamilton’s fit and contribution could determine her retention.

In Dallas, Awak Kuier’s steady improvement and defensive presence have made her a restricted free agent of interest, as she has solidified a significant role under coach Jose Fernandez. Her career-best shooting and leading block statistics enhance her value to the Wings.

Similarly, Emily Engstler of the Chicago Sky has delivered a breakout season, contributing defensively and offensively with career highs in multiple categories. As a restricted free agent, Chicago holds the option to maintain her services amid increasing league demand for versatile wings.

The Los Angeles Sparks faced a pivotal moment when Kelsey Plum, a five-time All-Star, was traded midseason to Phoenix Mercury. Plum’s pending free agency and strong scoring numbers at age 31 make her a highly attractive option for teams seeking veteran shooting prowess.

DiJonai Carrington of the Chicago Sky, the 2024 Most Improved Player, remains a notable unrestricted free agent candidate. Her consistent defensive contributions and improved three-point shooting have made her a valuable asset amid multiple team transitions.

Veteran Nneka Ogwumike returned to Los Angeles on a one-year deal, bringing veteran leadership and consistent production, including high shooting percentages. At age 37, she continues to contribute significantly on both ends of the floor.

Toronto’s Nyara Sabally, a restricted free agent, has shown promising development, with the coaching staff likely interested in retaining her as part of their cultural foundation.

The Connecticut Sun, soon to relocate to Houston, are focusing on retaining standout Brittney Griner. The Houston native and WNBA’s all-time blocks leader is the team's leading scorer despite injury setbacks approaching her 36th birthday. Her presence is expected to be pivotal for the franchise's new chapter.

Seattle Storm’s Jade Melbourne, a restricted free agent, has carved out a role in the backcourt, though the team might explore upgrades at her position given the depth of options.

As the WNBA benefits from a lengthier offseason compared to recent years, the free agency period promises to be a dynamic phase, with many teams poised to engage in negotiations to secure or acquire impactful players. The evolving salary landscape under the new CBA will likely fuel competitive bidding as franchises aim to build or sustain championship-caliber rosters for 2027 and beyond.