PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury have spent much of the season searching for consistency as they try to climb back into the playoff picture, and now an opportunity may have unexpectedly landed on the open market.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Breaking: The Las Vegas Aces have waived Chennedy Carter, the team announced. pic.twitter.com/WvTeDOFkAK
— espnW (@espnW) July 7, 2026
Guard Chennedy Carter was waived by the Las Vegas Aces on Tuesday, giving teams around the WNBA a dynamic offensive talent to add to their rosters. For the Mercury, the timing may have come at an opportune moment.
With Sami Whitcomb still sidelined and Jovana Nogić out for the remainder of the season, Phoenix has been searching for ways to replace the shooting and scoring both players provided.
May 9, 2026; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Aces guard Chennedy Carter (23) drives against the Phoenix Mercury in the third quarter of their game at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images
While Carter would not directly replace their perimeter shooting, she brings an elite ability to create offense off the dribble and attack the rim. During her time with the Aces, the guard averaged 12.2 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists while shooting 60.0% from the field and 52.4% from beyond the arc — both career bests.
Those numbers highlight the offensive upside that has made Carter such an intriguing player throughout her career.
May 31, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Las Vegas Aces guard Chennedy Carter (23) dribbles the ball against the Golden State Valkyries in the second quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
At her best, Carter is one of the league’s most explosive guards. She can generate points without plays designed for her, pressure opposing defenses in transition and create driving lanes that could open opportunities for Phoenix’s shooters and frontcourt players.
The challenge for any team interested in Carter, however, has been finding the right fit and maintaining consistency. She’s played for four different teams in five seasons in the league, showing flashes of star-level production while also facing off-court challenges. Any team would need to weigh the potential rewards against the importance of maintaining chemistry at the midway point of the season.
Still, Phoenix may be motivated to take that chance.
May 13, 2026; Uncasville, Connecticut, USA; Las Vegas Aces guard Chennedy Carter (23) shoots the ball against the Connecticut Sun in the second half at Mohegan Sun Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
The Mercury are looking for a different second half after spending much of the first half battling below .500. Finding another player capable of creating instant offense could be the difference in several close games as Phoenix continues its push toward postseason contention.
Whether Phoenix decides to pursue Carter remains to be seen, but with an open roster spot and a need for additional offensive creation, the Mercury have a compelling reason to explore the possibility.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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