The current WNBA season has reached an intense phase as the All-Star break nears, prompting teams to consider possible trades before the August 7 deadline. Among them, the Dallas Wings appear poised to explore trade options after a disappointing start that has shifted their outlook toward rebuilding. Central to these discussions are Arike Ogunbowale and Paige Bueckers, with the Wings expected to prioritize Bueckers’ development moving forward.
Sources from Yahoo Sports highlight the Minnesota Lynx as a leading contender to acquire Ogunbowale, who is in the final year of her $725,952 contract. As a former All-Star, Ogunbowale represents a valuable asset for Dallas to leverage, potentially receiving draft picks and notable players in exchange. Minnesota holds two 2026 first-round selections and several players with contracts set to expire, including Courtney Williams, Natisha Hiedeman, and Bridget Carleton, who might factor into trade negotiations.
Trade Challenges and Other Possible Destinations
Both the Wings and Lynx have tight roster and salary cap situations, which will require careful planning to execute any trade. Aside from Minnesota, teams like the Golden State Valkyries and Seattle Storm are also rumored destinations for Ogunbowale, each presenting their own complexities. While the Valkyries own few assets and lack draft picks, the Storm hold one first-round draft pick in 2026 but may need to trade established players such as Skylar Diggins or Gabby Williams to make a deal feasible.
Standing at 5-13, Dallas is unlikely to qualify for the playoffs this season and is therefore focusing on acquiring draft capital to build around new star Paige Bueckers. With Ogunbowale’s contract nearing expiration, the Wings might prefer to trade her now, maximizing returns before potentially losing her for nothing in free agency.
Ogunbowale’s Humorous Take on the Wings’ Season Outlook
Despite offseason moves aimed at strengthening the team, including adding DiJonai Carrington and NaLyssa Smith alongside top draft pick Paige Bueckers, the Wings have struggled early in the campaign. Arike Ogunbowale was recently asked about the team’s performance and potential ceiling during an interview, where she offered a candid and lighthearted view.
“I don’t think there is a ceiling. I think we’ve seen the floor but the ceiling, we haven’t touched that yet,” —Arike Ogunbowale, Dallas Wings guard
Her comment reflects the Wings’ difficult start, having lost 11 of their first 12 games, though they have since improved, winning four of their last six contests. The team hopes to build momentum in the latter half of the season as it prepares for potential roster changes before the trade deadline.
What the Trade Rumors Could Mean for the WNBA Landscape
The possibility of Arike Ogunbowale moving from Dallas to Minnesota or another team signals an important moment for the WNBA’s midseason shake-ups. A trade involving Ogunbowale could reshape several teams’ rosters and strategies, especially for those aiming for immediate success or building through the draft. For Dallas, acquiring draft assets would accelerate their plan to develop around Paige Bueckers, while Minnesota or other suitors could gain a dynamic guard to bolster their backcourt.
As the trade deadline draws closer, attention will intensify on negotiations involving Ogunbowale, with fans and analysts watching closely to see how teams balance current performance against future potential.