The Dallas Wings are facing a significant challenge as forward Maddy Siegrist is sidelined with a right knee injury. The injury, sustained during Wednesday's loss to the Phoenix Mercury, will not require surgery, but Siegrist will be out of the lineup for an indefinite period. The team announced that the third-year player is expected to make a full recovery and return later this season.
Siegrist was diagnosed with an anterolateral tibial plateau fracture. According to WebMD, the tibial plateau refers to the upper surface of the tibia or shin bone, which consists of cartilage crucial for knee function and stability.
Siegrist's Impact and Draft History
Drafted third overall by Dallas in 2023 from Villanova, Siegrist has quickly become a valuable asset, averaging 9.4 points and 5.2 rebounds per game across 11 games this season. The Wings demonstrated their confidence in her potential by exercising her fourth-year rookie contract option last month. In March, she also secured the Athletes Unlimited individual championship, showcasing her scoring prowess by outperforming Odyssey Sims.
Wings' Roster Depleted by Injuries and Obligations
Siegrist's injury further exacerbates the Wings' already depleted roster. The team is currently without point guard Tyasha Harris (injury) and centers Teaira McCowan and Luisa Geiselsoder, who are fulfilling national team commitments. Guard/forward Kaila Charles was recently waived but signed a hardship contract.
Reinforcements Arriving
To address these roster shortages, the Wings are bolstering their lineup by acquiring Seattle Storm center Li Yueru and former Atlanta Dream guard Haley Jones. The team hopes to find some much needed help both down low and in the backcourt. Yuera was traded to the Wings on June 14 in exchange for two future draft picks. Li, 26, averaged 2.8 points and 1.6 rebounds in limited minutes with the Storm this season.
The Wings will need these additions to step up as they navigate a challenging period with key players sidelined.