For many college prospects projected as the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft, they usually accept the reality of playing for a specific team. However, Connecticut Huskies super senior guard Paige Bueckers seems to have more control over her future path.
According to Howard Megdal of The Next, WNBA talent evaluators believe that Bueckers may try to avoid playing for the Dallas Wings, who currently hold the No. 1 pick.
The issues with the Wings stem from their dysfunction over the past decade, including frequent coaching changes and a recent shift in the general manager position. This instability may be a factor in Bueckers’ desire to explore other options.
Megdal does not specify which team Bueckers may prefer to play for in the upcoming WNBA season. However, he suggests that if she indicates her preferred destinations, the Wings could receive multiple trade offers.
By offering multiple preferred destinations, such as Los Angeles, Washington, and Golden State, instead of just one, Bueckers could generate more interest from potential trade partners, ultimately increasing the return for the Wings in a trade deal.
Speculation from Swish Appeal suggests that Bueckers may favor teams like the Sparks, Golden State Valkyries, and the Washington Mystics as potential landing spots.
While there is no indication that Bueckers is actively seeking to join a specific team, the Mystics present an interesting option due to the presence of former teammates and valuable assets that could facilitate a trade for the No. 1 pick.
However, uncertainties within the Mystics organization, such as changes in managerial and coaching positions, may cast doubt on Bueckers’ potential move to the team next season.
Bueckers still has various options to consider for her professional career, including staying in college for another year or exploring opportunities in other professional leagues before entering the WNBA.
The discussion surrounding Bueckers and the Mystics following the WNBA Draft Lottery is intriguing, especially since other potential team options like the Minnesota Lynx or the Connecticut Sun have not been prominently mentioned.
Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
