Mystics trade Tayler Hill, second round pick for Aerial Powers

The Mystics announced on Monday afternoon that they have traded Tayler Hill and a 2019 second round pick to the Dallas Wings in exchange for forward Aerial Powers. The Wings will also have the option to swap their first round pick with the Mystics (Washington is currently a half-game ahead of Dallas in the standings).

Powers was drafted fifth overall in the 2016 draft, and was on the 2016 All-Rookie team. She’s had a role in Dallas’ rotation in each of her three years and has been a full-time starter this season. She is a career 32 percent three point shooter and gives the Mystics size and length at the small forward position. She is averaging 6.2 points in 15.4 minutes per game this season.

Hill was the fourth overall pick in 2013 and the first draft pick Mike Thibault made for the Mystics. She started for the Mystics in 2016 and through mid-2017, when she suffered an ACL tear. She has played in 13 games for the Mystics this season, averaging just 3 points per game.

Thibault said about the trade in the team’s press release:

“We had an overload at the guard position as Ariel Atkins has proven herself as a starter on this team. We had an opportunity to add a bigger wing player in Aerial Powers, who is versatile enough to play positions two through four. With Tayler Hill’s minutes decreasing, we thought it best to give her the opportunity to find more playing time elsewhere.”

In addition to a crowded guard rotation, the Mystics are also in “win-now” mode. While Hill will likely continue to improve as she rehabs from her injury, Powers will be able to contribute more to the Mystics’ efforts this season.