Minnesota, August 4, 2025

News Summary

In a pivotal move before the WNBA trade deadline, the Minnesota Lynx have secured guard DiJonai Carrington from the Dallas Wings. In exchange, the Lynx sent forward Diamond Miller, guard Karlie Samuelson, and a 2027 second-round pick. Carrington, the WNBA’s Most Improved Player last season, is expected to bolster the Lynx’s defense as they pursue playoff success, especially with star player Napheesa Collier’s uncertain status due to injury. Meanwhile, the Wings are focusing on future development, trading away Carrington to build around their current roster.

Minnesota

In a significant move ahead of the WNBA trade deadline, the Minnesota Lynx have acquired guard DiJonai Carrington from the Dallas Wings. The trade, finalized shortly before the Thursday deadline, sees the Lynx sending forward Diamond Miller, guard Karlie Samuelson, and a 2027 second-round pick to the Wings in exchange for Carrington.

Last season, Carrington was recognized as the WNBA’s Most Improved Player and has gained a reputation as one of the league’s top defensive guards. This season, she has averaged 10.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game during her time with the Wings. The 5-foot-11 guard joined Dallas through a sign-and-trade arrangement from the Connecticut Sun, where she earned All-Defensive first team honors and received a vote for Defensive Player of the Year.

The Lynx currently hold a league-best record of 24-5 and are prioritizing playoff success. With a substantial six-game lead over the second-place New York Liberty, the team’s potential is bolstered by their strategic acquisition of Carrington. This move comes amid concerns over star player Napheesa Collier, who has suffered a sprained ankle and is uncertain for upcoming games.

The Dallas Wings are also shifting their focus towards future development. By trading Carrington, they are building around their current roster, which includes the No. 1 overall draft pick, Paige Bueckers. In terms of what the Wings received, Miller, the second overall pick in the 2023 draft, has seen limited playing time and is averaging just 4.1 points per game this season. She has faced injury challenges since her rookie season and has not regained her starting position with the Lynx.

In the trade, Samuelson, who had played in 16 games for the Lynx, will also not be returning, as she is recovering from season-ending surgery related to a foot injury. To facilitate the trade, the Wings waived veteran center Teaira McCowan.

The acquisition of Carrington is viewed as a critical strategy for the Lynx as they intensify their efforts toward a championship this season. Analysts believe adding Carrington may enhance the Lynx’s defensive capabilities and could also influence the offensive responsibilities of Kayla McBride, a key player for Minnesota.

While Carrington has struggled with her shooting efficiency this season, with a field goal percentage of just 35.4%, there are expectations that she can elevate her game while playing alongside a more competitive roster. Early assessments of the trade rate it as an A- for the Lynx, while the Wings’ return has been rated a B.

Trade Summary

• Trade Between: Minnesota Lynx and Dallas Wings
• Lynx Receive: DiJonai Carrington
• Wings Receive: Diamond Miller, Karlie Samuelson, 2027 second-round pick
• Carrington’s Season Averages: 10.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.8 assists

Playoff Implications

The trade’s impact is being scrutinized regarding playoff matchups, particularly against the defending champion New York Liberty. The Lynx are confident that Carrington’s defensive contributions will play a pivotal role as they navigate through the postseason, ensuring enhanced chances to secure the championship trophy.

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Additional Resources

• Star Tribune: Lynx Add DiJonai Carrington
• Wikipedia: WNBA
• Bleacher Report: DiJonai Carrington Traded
• Google Search: DiJonai Carrington
• Dallas News: Who is Diamond Miller
• Google Scholar: WNBA trade
• ESPN: Lynx Trade for DiJonai Carrington
• Encyclopedia Britannica: WNBA History
• Lynx WNBA: Acquire DiJonai Carrington
• Google News: WNBA trade deadline

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