The Minnesota Lynx strengthened their roster Sunday by acquiring veteran wing DiJonai Carrington from the Dallas Wings in a significant WNBA trade. In exchange, the Lynx sent guard Diamond Miller, shooter Karlie Samuelson, and their 2027 second-round draft pick to Dallas.
Carrington’s Career and Role Shift Ahead with the Lynx
DiJonai Carrington joined the Wings this offseason after four seasons with the Connecticut Sun, where she earned recognition as a first-team All-Defense player and secured the Most Improved Player award in 2024. Although her production and efficiency dipped during her time with Dallas, Carrington averaged 10.4 points per game and is expected to find a more comfortable and impactful role with Minnesota. The Lynx anticipate her to be a valuable secondary scorer and a key defender in their lineup.
Lynx’s Defensive Strength and Roster Strategy
Currently the WNBA’s top team by a significant margin—leading New York Liberty by six games—the Lynx are aggressively pursuing their first championship since 2017. Adding Carrington, known for her versatility and length across the perimeter, supports Minnesota’s goal to further fortify their elite defense. She brings ball pressure capability and the flexibility to guard multiple positions, making her a strong asset for the Lynx’s postseason ambitions.
Details of the Players Exchanged and Impact on Both Teams
Diamond Miller, once the No. 2 overall pick, and Karlie Samuelson, a reliable shooter, were key assets sent to Dallas but had limited roles with Minnesota recently. The Lynx prioritized upgrading their postseason rotation by consolidating some bench depth. For Dallas, acquiring Miller represents a reclamation opportunity; the former Maryland standout showed promise in her rookie year but drifted from Minnesota’s rotation. Dallas aims to explore Miller’s potential resurgence during the second half of the season.
Implications for the WNBA Season Moving Forward
This trade signals the Lynx’s commitment to remaining dominant as they pursue the championship, leveraging the addition of Carrington’s defensive versatility and experience. Meanwhile, the Wings look to rebuild and develop young talent like Miller in hopes of becoming more competitive in the future. The deal also highlights the evolving strategies among top WNBA teams to balance immediate contenders with long-term growth prospects.