The Dallas Wings, who were already dealing with multiple injuries, faced another serious setback on Tuesday night when their key player Maddy Siegrist fractured her left index finger. The team is in a tough spot as they try to stay competitive in the WNBA standings due to the 22-year-old’s injury suffered in the first quarter of a 90-78 defeat to the Minnesota Lynx.
The Wings’ offense greatly relies on Siegrist, who was the second overall pick in last year’s draft and averaging 14.6 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. The lack of her presence, along with the absence of Satou Sabally and Arike Ogunbowale, has left the Dallas team with a very small roster.
Sabally, a forward who is an All-Star, is currently in the process of recuperating from shoulder surgery that took place during the offseason and is not expected to make a return until after the Olympic break in August. Ogunbowale, who is the second-highest scorer in the league, has been struggling with Achilles heel pain and was not able to play in Tuesday’s game. Natasha Howard, another important player, has been sidelined since injuring her foot in the first game of the season.
The Wings, who have been struggling with injuries, have lost eight games in a row and currently have a record of 3-10 this season. They are second in the standings behind Washington and really need a change in fortunes.
Injury-plagued Dallas Wings deal with another setback as Maddy Siegrist breaks a finger https://t.co/241Fk2xqXT
— WFAA (@wfaa) June 19, 2024
In spite of facing challenges, Siegrist stayed in the match against Minnesota, earning 17 points to match the team’s top score. Her tough and resiliency on the court served as proof of her durability, while also bringing up worries about her future availability.
Dallas coach Latricia Trinity stated that they would be approaching the situation one day at a time and monitoring the response from the individual. We won’t hurry her return to the court until she’s completely healed.
On Thursday night, Detroit will play against Chicago, which will be their fourth game during a four-game road trip. It is uncertain if Dallas can improve their season with Siegrist out and other key players injured.
In other developments, the team enhanced their roster by securing free agent Morgan Bertsch with a salary cap hardship deal. Bertsch joins Monique Billings, who was brought in on a hardship contract following Howard’s injury. Nevertheless, one of these agreements must be ended once a injured player is given permission to resume playing.
The difficulties faced by the Wings are very familiar to fans who have become used to disappointment in recent years. Although Dallas reached the playoffs just last season, they are still struggling to maintain consistency and stability. Siegrist’s injury further complicates their situation, making it uncertain if or when the team can improve.
Currently, Siegrist will receive care and therapy for her broken finger, aiming to get back to playing as quickly as possible. The Wings will keep moving forward without her, seeking any sign of hope in the midst of their current struggle.