Two back-to-back wins in a row for the Dallas Wings, not something many expected to say about them after they went on a run of 7 consecutive wins. But credit where it’s due! Ever since rookie superstar Paige Bueckers returned from concussion protocol, the team’s energy has shifted. The Wings finally started clicking on both ends of the floor. But just when it looked like they were turning a corner, trouble came knocking again. EuroBasket has left them severely shorthanded, and now the injuries are also piling in.

The Wings are already without Teaira McCowan and Luisa Geiselsoder due to EuroBasket commitments. Tyasha Harris and Maddy Seigrist continue to be out, nursing knee injuries. It was already a pretty dire situation for the Wings. But just when fans thought it couldn’t get any worse, it did!

According to the Underdog WNBA, DiJonai Carrington is currently suffering from a rib injury and has been listed out for the upcoming game against the Washington Mystics. A huge blow for the Wings!

DiJonai, one of the best defenders in the league, has been a key player for the franchise this season. She arrived in Dallas via a trade that sent the 8th pick in the 2025 draft and Jacy Sheldon the other way. The reigning Most Improved Player has picked up right where she left off. She was averaging 2 stocks per game and earned a well-deserved spot on the All-Defensive First Team last year.

This season has been no different for Carrington. The dynamic guard is putting up 11.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. She continues to be a crucial two-way presence for the team. With the franchise already having lost 11 games this season, the next game against the Washington Mystics will prove to be quite difficult without one of their most consistent performers on the floor.

So, who steps up in DiJonai Carrington’s absence against the Mystics? That’s the big question for the Wings. Let’s try and analyze!

Who replaces Paige Bueckers’ teammate against the Mystics?

It’s quite obvious the coach Koclanes will stick with the same starting five that helped the Wings get wins over the Connecticut Sun and the Golden State Valkyries. For those wondering, no, DiJonai Carrington wasn’t in the starting lineup during those games. The Wings rolled with a unit of Paige Bueckers, NaLyssa Smith, Myisha Hines-Allen, Arike Ogunbowale, and Aziaha James.

Bueckers, averaging 17.7 points and 5.7 assists since her return, has been the spark, with teammates feeding off her poise. While her offensive rhythm sets the tone, the coming stretch will test her versatility, especially as she’s leaned on for playmaking, leadership, and timely stops against elite guards across the league.

But Carrington was averaging close to 27 minutes per game, and now those minutes will likely be distributed between Haley Jones and Kalia Charles. These two are currently on hardship contracts, and they would want to continue to impress their coach in hopes of getting a permanent roster spot.

It’s anyone’s guess how the Wings will fare without arguably their best defender on the court. Carrington’s absence is a big one, especially against a youthful and energetic Mystics squad. Do you the Wings have what it takes to push through and grab another win? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!