**NaLyssa Smith’s Surprising Trade to Las Vegas Aces**
WNBA veteran NaLyssa Smith has been traded from the Dallas Wings to the Las Vegas Aces, leaving her visibly shocked by the unexpected move. Following the announcement, Smith took to social media to express her feelings, stating, “Sick to my stomach dawg, never seen this coming but.. I love you Dallas nation, thank you 4 everything.” The trade, which was confirmed on Monday, involved the Aces acquiring Smith in exchange for a first-round pick in 2027.
This season has been challenging for both Smith and the Wings, who currently hold a dismal 1-11 record. Smith’s performance has also dipped, averaging just 6.7 points and 4.9 rebounds per game—both career lows—over 18 games. She was previously acquired by the Wings in an offseason trade with the Indiana Fever, as Dallas aimed to strengthen its roster around stars Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale. However, the team’s efforts did not yield the desired results, prompting a swift decision to trade Smith for future assets.
Adding to the emotional complexity of the trade, Smith was playing alongside her girlfriend, DiJonai Carrington, who also joined the Wings this offseason. The two have a history as teammates at Baylor and have been in a relationship since. Carrington shared her feelings on social media with a broken-heart emoji, followed by a post featuring photos of the couple together on and off the court.
Despite her initial shock, Smith later expressed excitement about her new opportunity in Las Vegas. “On another note tho, if I could’ve chose anywhere to go it would’ve been Vegas so hella excited 4 this new opportunity wit my goat,” she wrote. While she did not specify who her “goat” is, it is widely believed to refer to A’ja Wilson, a three-time WNBA MVP and two-time champion, who has been a cornerstone of the Aces since being drafted first overall in 2018.
Smith was the second overall pick by the Fever in 2022 and made an immediate impact, earning a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie first team with averages of 13.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. However, her playing time dipped below 20 minutes per game with Dallas, a trend that may change with her new team.
The Aces currently sit seventh in the WNBA standings and fifth in the Western Conference, holding an 8-8 record as the season progresses. Smith’s anticipated debut with the Aces will be against her former team, the Fever, in Indianapolis on Thursday night.
**FAQ**
*What impact will NaLyssa Smith’s trade have on the Aces?*
NaLyssa Smith’s trade to the Aces could provide a much-needed boost to the team’s performance, especially as they look to improve their standing in the league. Her previous experience and skills may enhance the Aces’ roster depth and overall competitiveness.
