The Connecticut Sun signed Essence Carson after waiving Jacki Gemelos.
The Washington Mystics signed Jacki Gemelos to a seven-day contract after waiving Shey Peddy and Essence Carson.
The Phoenix Mercury signed Shey Peddy to a seven-day contract a day later.
That pretty much catches us up…for now.
As we hit the mid-point of the WNBA season, roster moves, guaranteed contracts and seven-day contracts become a hot topic for teams vying for opportunities to improve their rosters. Teams had until August 18th as the mid-season cut down date. After the 18th, non guaranteed contracts became guaranteed and on the books for the remainder of the season. This is why we saw moves like the Mystics waiving Shey Peddy.
Unfortunately for Washington, this moves is a gamble. It creates an opportunity for another team to scoop her up before she was potentially resigned. It also gave Peddy the opportunity to choose, which is exactly what happened with the Phoenix Mercury.
Jacki Gemelos appeared in six games for the Connecticut Sun with limited minutes. Once Essence Carson was waived by Washington, the Sun saw it as an opportunity to add athleticism and experience to their already short-handed bench. Carson brings 12 years of league experience, is a former All-Star and WNBA Champion.
Washington may have had intentions to sign Peddy in their gamble and strategy to work within their cap space, but had to go a different direction in adding Jacki Gemelos. Gemelos has been a praised teammate, experienced player who can come in and knock down open shots.
Stella Johnson Shines for the Mystics
The best roster move DC has made this season is the addition of Stella Johnson. The first year rookie was drafted by the Mercury as the No. 29 overall pick in this year’s draft but waived before the start of the season. After a brief four game stint with the Chicago Sky where she averaged 1.5 minute per game, the five-foot-eleven guard found her new home with the Mystics.
Johnson is now starting for DC in just her third game with the team averaging 11.3 points in 18 minutes per game. Sometimes it’s all about fit and opportunity right?
Look for more WNBA moves the next week as we enter the trade deadline which is August 28.
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