What happened: A one-year review of the 2025 midseason deals found that early reactions aged unevenly. NaLyssa Smith helped Las Vegas win the championship, while Seattle turned part of the Li Yueru return into its package for Flau'jae Johnson.
Why it matters: Later pick movement, injuries and offseason departures ultimately shaped several returns. Those developments show why immediate deadline grades can miss a deal's longer roster impact.
By the numbers: Seattle's acquired 2026 second-rounder became the No. DiJonai Carrington played two playoff games after the Aug. 3 trade, while Diamond Miller averaged slightly more than 10 minutes per game in Dallas.
What to watch: Watch whether 2026 deadline moves deliver immediate rotation value or develop into longer transaction chains through draft picks.