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Analysis: Dallas acquires Tayler Hill from Washington for Aerial Powers

By Jada Butts

ARLINGTON, TX - JULY 5: Aerial Powers #23 of the Dallas Wings handles the ball against the Indiana Fever on July 5, 2018 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photos by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - JULY 5: Aerial Powers #23 of the Dallas Wings handles the ball against the Indiana Fever on July 5, 2018 at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photos by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Two WNBA contenders made a big move Monday.

It was announced today that the Dallas Wings traded Aerial Powers in exchange for Tayler Hill, and the Washington Mystics’ 2019 second round pick and the rights to swap 2019 first round picks.

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Here’s what it means.

Both Powers and Hill have so much upside, but have been plagued by injuries as of late. The trade happened just while they were both getting back into rhythm.

The Washington Mystics are getting a dynamic wing in Powers who can play multiple positions. The trade stemmed from the overload in their guard position, according to general manager Mike Thibault. The Mystics can surely capitalize on Powers’ versatility and add depth to their roster.

Powers was drafted by the Wings in the first round of the 2016 draft. In her rookie season, she came off the bench but still made a big impact for the team. Powers put up 10.4 points per game and 2.7 rebounds while earning herself a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie team. Her numbers have dipped in her third season, but we can chalk it up to her recovering from a quad injury.

The excitement and passion that Powers brings to a team is unmatched. Sitting in on the Wings practices, and even while she was injured on the sidelines during games, it was amazing to see the way that Powers celebrates her teammates’ success. The energy and positivity she brings is a trait that any team would want.

Lose one, to gain some

WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 13: Tayler Hill #4 of the Washington Mystics handles the ball against the Chicago Sky on June 13, 2018 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – JULY 13: Tayler Hill #4 of the Washington Mystics handles the ball against the Chicago Sky on June 13, 2018 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Although Dallas lost a glue player, they gained a lot in this trade as well. In addition to some draft opportunities, the Wings added a veteran guard and proven scorer to their roster in Tayler Hill.

The opportunity for Hill to get back to her natural position at the two guard should help her gain confidence in what has been a difficult season. The Wings have been known for running the floor, but they have also developed a solid pick-and-roll game since acquiring 6’8 center Liz Cambage. That plays right into Hill’s game. Her ability to get to the rim, create her own lanes, and draw fouls can only help the Wings continue the build upon the season they are having.

Currently, reigning rookie of the year Allisha Gray starts at the two spot for the Wings. I don’t see that changing, but I do think that Hill can find some relief minutes for Dallas. The backcourt consists of Skylar Diggins-Smith, who is playing the majority of the game every outing, and Letecia Romero. Adding Hill’s experience and leadership can help this team go a long way.

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