WNBA Moves: Lynx Bolster with Carrington, Wings Look to the Future
With the WNBA trade deadline approaching, contending teams are intensifying their efforts to improve their rosters, within the limitations imposed by the league’s salary cap.
On Sunday, the league-leading Minnesota Lynx made a key move by acquiring DiJonai Carrington, Most Improved Player from last season, from the Dallas Wings. In return, the Lynx sent Diamond Miller, Karlie Samuelson (injured), and a 2027 second-round pick.
Carrington, who did not achieve the expected impact after joining Dallas, will contribute his defensive skills to Minnesota, which earned him the nickname “Seatbelt” for his ability to stop rival stars.
Meanwhile, the Wings are focusing on the future, building their team around the number 1 draft pick, Paige Bueckers. Miller, selected second overall in 2022, could have more playing opportunities on a team like the Wings, which prioritizes the development of young talent.
Transfer Analysis
Lynx get:Wings get:
- Diamond Miller
- Karlie Samuelson
- 2027 Second Round Selection
Grade for Minnesota: A-If MVP candidate Napheesa Collier doesn’t suffer a prolonged absence due to her ankle injury, the Lynx could secure the top spot in the regular season with a considerable lead. This would allow them to focus on playoff matchups, especially a possible Finals rematch against the New York Liberty.
Carrington could be key with her defense, in case that series is repeated. In Dallas, Carrington did not achieve the desired impact, and her signing was not enough to improve the Wings’ defense.
In Minnesota, Carrington joins a solid system, similar to the one employed by the Connecticut Sun, where she received votes for Defensive Player of the Year and was included in the All-Defensive first team, in addition to winning the Most Improved Player award last season. In fact, the Lynx’s defensive efficiency is notably superior to that of any other WNBA team.
The Lynx have achieved this efficiency without having a true defensive specialist on the perimeter. The incorporation of Carrington could even allow Kayla McBride to focus more on her offensive game.
Even Carrington could be a starter in the playoffs alongside McBride. Although Bridget Carleton hasn’t performed as well as in the previous season, Carrington could fill that void.
Carrington, although not a great threat from the three-point line, is a valuable asset for the Lynx, especially after Samuelson’s injury. Cheryl Reeve’s rotation needed a reliable player.
Miller, who failed to gain Reeve’s trust, could have a new opportunity in Dallas. His combination of size and perimeter skills fits well on a team with a small roster.
Rating for Dallas: BCarrington’s time with the Wings was not ideal for either party. With Carrington on his way to free agency and the Wings focused on the future, any benefit is positive.
Miller could showcase more of his skills in Dallas. His combination of size and perimeter skills fits well on a team with a small roster.
Looking ahead, it’s interesting to see how Dallas’ protected list will be defined for the next expansion draft. Bueckers and Maddy Siegrist are the most obvious options for Dallas. This leaves four spots available between Arike Ogunbowale, Miller, three starters (Quinerly, Geiselsoder and Li Yueru) and key reserve James.
The Wings had to waive Teaira McCowan to make room on their roster.
