The Lynx picked up the 18th selection in this year's WNBA draft from Phoenix today by executing a sign-and-trade deal that sent Charde Houston to the Mercury, along with the 24th pick in the draft.

Houston was the Lynx' third-round pick in 2008 and was a WNBA All-Star in 2009 when she averaged 13.1 points and 5.5 rebounds.

"Charde was an important part of our team for the last four years," said Roger Griffith, the team's executive vice president. "She was able to positively impact our team, not only with her play on the court, but also with her personality off the court and with the fans.

"Charde had expressed an interest getting more playing time and, hopefully, this trade will give her a larger opportunity. We are appreciative of everything she has done for our organization and wish her the best in Phoenix."

The Lynx won the WNBA title last season, but Houston was relegated to a bench role and averaged career lows in points (2.9) and rebounds (1.7).

She is the second player off the Lynx's championship team to be traded to Phoenix. Guard Alexis Hornbuckle was dealt to the Mercury on Feb. 2.

The Lynx will open their season against Phoenix on May 20 at Target Center.

On the draft front, the Lynx have now have six picks in the WNBA draft which will be held in early April, including five in the top 20: third, 12th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 31st.