Paige Bueckers’ start to the WNBA hasn’t been smooth. The Dallas Wings are struggling with a 1-7 record so far. To make matters worse, Bueckers has missed the last two games while dealing with concussion protocol. Her absence has left a noticeable gap in the team’s offense, as her ability to run the floor and create plays is something the Wings desperately miss. But there’s some good news ahead for the Wings before their upcoming game against the LA Sparks. One that will definitely make the fans happy!

The Wings are still finding their footing after a rough 9-31 season last year. With a revamped roster and new coach Chris Koclanes trying to install his system, it’s been a rocky start. Sitting at the bottom of the standings, their playoff hopes look slim. These are still early days of course. Remember last year’s Cinderella run by number 1 pick Caitlin Clark? She took the Fever from a rough 2-7 start all the way to the playoffs.

For Paige to match that kind of success, staying healthy is a must, and things are looking up. Reporter Melissa Triebwasser was at practice Thursday and reported that Bueckers is back practicing today, though she hasn’t hit the court fully yet. She was spotted getting some work done on the bike instead.

The number 1 pick of the 2025 WNBA draft has made a strong start to her W career, averaging 14.7 points in May and ranking fourth in the league with 6.7 assists per game. She’s also contributing 4.5 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1 block per game. Among the rookies, Bueckers has the most points per game so far as well. Her return to the court will be absolutely vital for the Wings as they look to turn their season around.

Coach Koclanes has faced plenty of pressure from fans after the Wings’ rocky start this season. Here’s what he had to say about the team’s current injury struggles.

Paige Bueckers’ coach struggling without his guards

Without key players like Paige Bueckers and Tyasha Harris, the Wings couldn’t hold on to their 10-point lead against the Seattle Storm. Coach Koclanes showed plenty of sympathy for his team, acknowledging how tough the injury issues have been this season for the Wings.

Koclanes expressed his frustration over the Wings’ thin point guard depth. Before the Seattle Storm game, he said, “There really is no point guard active right now. … JJ [Quinerly] off the bench is really our only true point guard … she really hasn’t been a point guard since high school.” 

Paige’s return against the LA Sparks could be a game-changer for the Wings. They desperately need a steady ball handler, and having their star rookie back on the court will inject energy and confidence into the team. Stay tuned to find out if Paige’s return can help Wings get back to winning ways!