NaLyssa Smith Traded to the Aces for 1st Rounder
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The Las Vegas Aces have acquired forward NaLyssa Smith from the Dallas Wings in exchange for a 2027 first-round draft pick. A double-digit scorer in each of her first three seasons with the Indiana Fever, Smith saw her role and production decrease this year in Dallas, where she was averaging career lows of 6.7 points and 4.9 rebounds. To create the necessary roster space and salary for Smith, the Aces waived rookie center Elizabeth Kitley and veteran guard Tiffany Mitchell.
Impact on the Dallas Wings
By acquiring a first-round pick, Dallas adds a valuable long-term asset as it builds around rookie guard Paige Bueckers and its young core. The move also helped resolve a roster crunch; to complete the trade, Dallas released guard Kaila Charles, who was on a hardship contract. The trade also has a personal dimension, as it separates Smith from her girlfriend, DiJonai Carrington, who remains a key player for the Wings.
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Impact on the Las Vegas Aces
After a slow start to the season, Las Vegas is looking for a spark. Smith provides hustle, proven scoring, and rebounding. The trade gives the team immediate frontcourt depth as they look to climb the standings.
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