Dallas is making a bold bet on the future, but whether it works will depend on a few key factors:
1. Health & Fit – Moving on from Satou Sabally, a high-ceiling talent with injury concerns, signals that the Wings are valuing availability and fit over raw talent. NaLyssa Smith brings a strong interior presence, and DiJonai Carrington adds defensive toughness and versatility. However, neither of them can replicate Sabally’s ability to be a two-way focal point.
2. Paige Bueckers or Another No. 1 Pick? – If Dallas selects Bueckers (assuming she declares), their approach makes more sense. Surrounding a franchise guard with defensive-minded, versatile players is a logical path. If they go another direction, they need to be sure that player can have a similar franchise-altering impact.
3. Is This a Win-Now Roster? – The Wings’ moves suggest they don’t want a full rebuild, but they’re still a step away from serious contention. They have a top-tier scorer in Arike Ogunbowale and solid complementary pieces, but frontcourt depth and shooting remain question marks.
4. Draft & Future Flexibility – Holding picks No. 12 and 14 gives them options. They could trade up for a specific target or add much-needed depth. The flexibility to swap 2026 second-rounders may seem minor, but every asset counts in a league with tight roster spots.
Final Takeaway
Dallas is threading a fine line between retooling and rebuilding. They sacrificed star power but gained depth and flexibility. If they hit on their draft picks (especially at No. 1 overall), this offseason could be a turning point. If not, they risk remaining stuck in mediocrity.
What do you think—are they making the right moves, or should they have taken a different approach?
