The upcoming 2025 WNBA All-Star break isn't just a midpoint for the Dallas Wings, it's a stark turning point for their future, demanding a clear strategy to solidify franchise cornerstone Paige Bueckers. The Wings must prioritize maximizing her talent while she's still on her cost-controlled rookie contract through 2028.
This urgency mirrors the Indiana Fever's decisive action last season, when they aggressively pursued established free agents after making the playoffs, accelerating their competitiveness following Caitlin Clark's arrival. Dallas must now follow that approach, leveraging both free agency and the draft to build a winning foundation around the phenom.
In a season so far marked by inconsistency and a challenging record, Paige Bueckers has been the singular, unwavering force for Dallas. The rookie has not just met the hype, she's exceeded it. As of early July, she is averaging 18.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.4 assists, cementing herself as a rookie All-Star starter. Her ability to score efficiently, create for others, and impact the game has instantly established her as the foundation of the Wings.
To truly capitalize, every offseason move, from free agency targets to draft picks, must prioritize constructing a team that genuinely complements the star guard.
Star scorer or salary cap conundrum?
Dallas faces its most defining decision with Arike Ogunbowale. A four-time All-Star and prolific scorer, she has been the Wings' consistent offensive engine, but her contract expires after 2025. With a new CBA likely increasing the salary cap, a new deal for her could reach supermax territory, posing two critical questions for the front office: can her high-volume, shot-creating style truly coexist with Paige Bueckers' dynamic playmaking without limiting offensive versatility? And financially, would a massive new deal take up too much cap space, hurting Dallas' ability to acquire much-needed defense and depth required to compete for the playoffs?
The ultimate decision, however, seems increasingly clear. It's time to fully commit to building for Bueckers. Moving on from Ogunbowale would free up crucial cap space to build through free agency and the draft. Dallas is a booming sports market, with the Mavericks and top pick Cooper Flagg next door, creating an exciting basketball environment. This energy, combined with the undeniable appeal of playing alongside Paige Bueckers and other promising young talent, could be a strong lure for top free agents seeking a new team.
Filling the roster gaps
Regardless of the Ogunbowale decision, Dallas must aggressively address its glaring defensive weaknesses, as they consistently rank among worst in the league. Prioritizing defensive-minded players, versatile wings and strong bigs, is key. Players like Teaira McCowan, DiJonai Carrington, and Myisha Hines-Allen all have contracts expiring in 2025. Their futures with the Wings will require careful evaluation, weighing their cost under the new CBA against their fit within the team's evolving vision. They could also be valuable assets to trade for additional players and draft picks.
Additionally, the continued development of Maddy Siegrist, Aziaha James, and JJ Quinerly, all on rookie deals through 2028, will help bolster the roster and hopefully reduce sole reliance on free-agent signings.
With a likely high pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, the Wings are also positioned to add another significant piece. They should strategically target players who directly address their defensive deficiencies or provide immediate two-way impact. Given the team's current needs for a strong defensive big or a versatile wing, top prospects like UCLA's center Lauren Betts and UConn's guard Azzi Fudd are widely projected as potential lottery picks and would represent compelling options to further accelerate Dallas' rebuild around a young core.
Pressure on the front office
General Manager Curt Miller and head coach Chris Koclanes are entering a defining period for the Dallas Wings. Miller's ability to navigate the new CBA and the hyper-competitive free agency market will directly determine the team's trajectory. His vision for a championship contender needs to be not just clear, but decisively executed.
Koclanes, in his first year as head coach, has faced an uphill battle with a roster decimated by injuries and still in transition. His role in fostering team chemistry and developing a cohesive defensive identity will be key, especially as the roster undergoes significant changes. It is paramount that the Wings have a coach in place who can fully support and accelerate Bueckers' development.
We saw a similar situation last year when the Indiana Fever decided that Christy Sides was not the coach to lead the Caitlin Clark era, ultimately making a change for Stephanie White. The Wings could very well face a similar decision regarding Koclanes.
While watching the Wings struggle might be frustrating for fans and players, there are many positives to look forward to. A new state-of-the-art practice facility is expected to be ready by April 2026 for training camp, providing an elite environment for player development. While the new downtown Dallas arena won't be ready until 2027, the long-term vision for the franchise's facilities presents a draw for prospective free agents. However, that appeal will only truly materialize if the on-court product dramatically improves, or if there's a compelling vision that players can genuinely get behind and commit to executing.
The Wings have been gifted a generational talent in Paige Bueckers. They must take this opportunity seriously, committing fully to implementing a system and acquiring personnel that not only support but elevate her unique skillset. If that means making bold, perhaps uncomfortable, decisions to transition fully into a new era, then they must be confident and decisive in doing so.