The Valkyries lost Carla Leite in the expansion draft. The 21-year-old is headed to Portland where a new franchise and a bigger role—maybe even a starting spot—are waiting for her. Fan favorite Kaitlyn Chen could also quickly find herself in a bigger role now. With Leite gone, Chen could slide into a more prominent backup role behind Veronica Burton for the Valkyries.
The Valkyries want to build a contender—that’s no secret—and a third-round pick doesn’t often find herself playing much on a team like that. But it’s not as crazy as it sounds. The Valkyries essentially waived Julie Vanloo to keep Chen last season. They wouldn’t have done that if they hadn’t seen long-term potential in her. They also wouldn’t have to pay Chen much to keep her around, which would free up money to chase star wings or bigs in free agency.
Most importantly, however, Chen put together a very solid offseason, showcasing her talent as a scorer and passer to solidify her case for a bigger role.Â
Kaitlyn Chen was busy this offseason
After making her WNBA debut in the summer, Chen also made her EuroLeague and Athletes Unlimited debuts in the offseason. She played for USK Praha in Czechia and put together some impressive games. In late October, she recorded her first double-double as a pro with 10 points and 10 assists before dishing out a career-high 11 assists a few days later. Just over a month later, she scored 18 points on 4-4 shooting from three.Â
In January, Chen came back to the U.S. and played in Athletes Unlimited, taking her game to yet another level. She scored at least 10 points in all but two games, including a 32-point outing. She also recorded at least three assists in eleven out of twelve games.Â
She deserves a chance to show whether she can do the same in the WNBA. If the Valkyries don’t give it to her, another team will.Â
The Valkyries could be a very different team this season
Losing Leite in the expansion draft is only one of many looming Valkyries changes. Kate Martin is now the only player under contract with the franchise. Everyone else is some kind of free agent. The Valkyries will undoubtedly re-sign Veronica Burton and Janelle SalaĂĽn.Â
Iliana Rupert, Kayla Thornton, Cecilia Zandalasini, Tiffany Hayes, Monique Billings, and Temi Fagbenle all played well enough to technically earn another contract. Which of them will actually be back with the Valkyries will likely depend on who the front office can land in free agency and what contracts other teams are willing to offer them.Â
Expect the Valkyries to go star-chasing in free agency—and be involved in at least one blockbuster move. They have everything a star player looking for a fresh start could ask for: a winning culture, cap space to hand out big contracts, owners willing to invest in the players, modern facilities, a great coach, and a dedicated fanbase.Â