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Discussing the upcoming 2025 WNBA Expansion Draft, we pondered which Washington Mystics player the Golden State Valkyries might select on Dec. 6. To start, we considered the six protected players.
Here is the list of players I believe would be protected:
- Elena Delle Donne
- Brittney Sykes
- Ariel Atkins
- Shakira Austin
- Aaliyah Edwards
- Stefanie Dolson
In the end, I predicted the Valkyries might choose Karlie Samuelson, Shatori Walker-Kimbrough, or Jade Melbourne.
However, a significant change occurred since Sept. 26. With the departure of General Manager Mike Thibault and Head Coach Eric Thibault, Michael Winger now leads the way as the interim general manager for the Mystics. Will Winger’s decisions differ from the previous management’s?
In summary, Winger is likely to protect most of the same players as Thibault, possibly excluding Delle Donne.
Now that Winger is in charge, his priority for the expansion draft is safeguarding the team’s most valuable players.
Therefore, I anticipate Sykes, Atkins, Edwards, Austin, and Dolson to be protected.
As for Delle Donne, while valuable in trades, the Mystics weren’t successful in trading her previously. Selecting Delle Donne would offer her and Washington a fresh start.
If Delle Donne is left unprotected, Samuelson or Melbourne could be potential choices for protection, each offering different trade possibilities.
Do you think Winger will protect different players or stick with the current suggestions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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