In a stunning move ahead of the August 7 WNBA trade deadline, the Dallas Wings have traded guard DiJonai Carrington to the Minnesota Lynx in exchange for forward Diamond Miller, guard Karlie Samuelson, and a 2027 second-round draft pick, both teams announced Sunday. This trade shakes up the rosters of two teams with contrasting trajectories, as the Lynx aim to solidify their championship aspirations while the Wings focus on rebuilding.
Carrington, the 2024 WNBA Most Improved Player and an All-Defensive First Team selection, brings elite perimeter defense and versatility to Minnesota. Averaging 10.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals in 20 games with Dallas this season, she was the Wings’ third-leading scorer behind Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale. Her addition to the Lynx, who boast the league’s best record at 24-5, strengthens an already formidable backcourt. Carrington’s defensive prowess, highlighted by her league-leading three games with five or more steals last season with the Connecticut Sun, makes her a perfect fit for a Minnesota team eyeing a deep playoff run. She is expected to slot in as the Lynx’s fourth-leading scorer and rebounder, complementing stars like Napheesa Collier.
For Dallas, the trade signals a continued roster retool around young talent. Diamond Miller, the No. 2 pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft, brings athleticism and potential to the Wings’ frontcourt. Despite averaging 7.1 points over two-plus seasons in Minnesota, Miller has struggled for consistent minutes, making her a high-upside acquisition for a Wings team with a 5-13 record. Karlie Samuelson, a sharpshooting veteran with a career 39.7% three-point percentage, adds depth but is currently sidelined with a Lisfranc injury and will be a free agent next season. The 2027 second-round pick provides additional flexibility for Dallas, who also waived center Teaira McCowan to finalize the deal.
The trade reflects Minnesota’s win-now mentality, leveraging their league-leading position to add a proven defender in Carrington. Meanwhile, Dallas, under GM Curt Miller, continues to prioritize youth and draft capital, as evidenced by their earlier trade of NaLyssa Smith. With the WNBA trade deadline looming, this blockbuster deal could reshape the playoff landscape and set the stage for Dallas’ future.
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