Dallas Wings Prepare to Face Las Vegas Aces Without Alanna Smith in Concussion Protocol
The Dallas Wings will be facing the Las Vegas Aces without Alanna Smith, who is in concussion protocol. Smith sustained a facial injury during a game against the Chicago Sky and has been sidelined since then. She also missed the Wings' recent game against the Seattle Storm due to a face injury. Smith, the highest-paid player on the team, signed a lucrative three-year deal this offseason after being named co-Defensive Player of the Year last season with the Minnesota Lynx.
Standing at 6-foot-4, Smith has been a consistent performer in the WNBA, starting in all 81 games she played for the Lynx over the past two seasons. She has been a valuable asset on both ends of the court, averaging 9.1 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game during her time with the Lynx. Despite a reduced role with the Wings this season, Smith's defensive prowess has been missed in recent games.
In Smith's absence, Jessica Shepard has stepped up in the frontcourt for the Wings. Shepard, who joined the team from the Lynx, is having a career year, averaging double-doubles in points and rebounds while shooting efficiently from the field. However, Smith's defensive contributions would have been valuable against the Aces, making her absence a significant loss for the Wings in their upcoming matchup.
The Dallas Wings will have to adjust their game plan without Alanna Smith, as they face a tough challenge against the Las Vegas Aces. Smith's absence leaves a void in the team's defense, but players like Jessica Shepard will look to step up in her place. The Wings will need to rely on their depth and resilience to overcome Smith's injury and compete at a high level in the upcoming game.