Core Stars No Team Would Risk Losing (Image Credits: Upload.wikimedia.org)
Las Vegas – The WNBA’s expansion to 15 teams with the addition of the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo puts the Las Vegas Aces in a familiar position of defending their core talent. Teams across the league must submit lists of five protected players by Sunday, March 29, ahead of the April 3 draft.[1][2] For the recent champions, these decisions carry high stakes as they aim to sustain their dominance while navigating trade acquisitions and young prospects. Speculation runs high on who will stay safe from the new franchises’ selections.
Core Stars No Team Would Risk Losing
The Aces’ protection strategy starts with three undeniable pillars who have powered multiple title runs. A’ja Wilson, the league’s premier center and four-time MVP, remains the cornerstone after anchoring recent championships. Her expected supermax extension underscores her irreplaceable role in the frontcourt.
Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray complete this elite trio. Young developed into a two-way force, contributing to three championships in four years, while Gray’s veteran playmaking stabilized offenses during playoff pushes. Analysts agree these players top every projected list due to their core eligibility and championship pedigree.[3][4]
High-Stakes Trade Returns Demand Safeguards
Recent blockbuster deals have added layers to the Aces’ decisions. Jewell Loyd, acquired in a mid-season trade that cost a first-round pick, adapted seamlessly to a hybrid scoring role and earned supermax status. Leaving her exposed would undermine the investment and risk bolstering a rival expansion squad.
NaLyssa Smith, another trade return from the Dallas Wings involving future draft capital, provided frontcourt stability last season. Her restricted free agency status makes protection essential to retain control amid the league’s growth. Both players represent the Aces’ commitment to immediate contention, forcing tough calls on depth.[5][1]
The Fierce Fight for the Final Spot
Beyond the top four, contention brews among promising role players. Aaliyah Nye emerges as a strong candidate, valued for her shooting and the team’s thin youth pipeline. Her rookie-scale deal and regular-season minutes position her ahead in several forecasts.
Dana Evans and Kierstan Bell also vie for inclusion. Evans contributed to the 2025 title push, while Bell started playoff games despite a smaller postseason role. The choice here balances proven versatility against long-term contracts, with Nye often edging out due to defensive upside and cost control.[6][3]
- Aaliyah Nye: Sharpshooter with three years left on rookie deal.
- Dana Evans: Title contributor with championship experience.
- Kierstan Bell: Playoff starter needing offseason extension.
- Megan Gustafson and Cheyenne Parker-Tyus: Likely unprotected veterans.
What Happens to the Unprotected?
Once lists finalize, unprotected players like Kierstan Bell or Megan Gustafson enter the pool for Portland and Toronto. Expansion rules limit each new team to two selections per existing franchise across rounds, reducing total losses but heightening value for available talent.[1] The Aces’ depth, including Cheyenne Parker-Tyus and Dana Evans if left off, could attract picks despite the cap.
Pre-draft trades through April 2 offer another layer, allowing swaps to manipulate protections. This setup tests general manager Natalie Williams’ foresight in balancing dynasty preservation with league expansion dynamics.
The Aces’ choices will shape their 2026 roster amid free agency and the draft. Protecting the core secures title contention, but exposing depth risks raids on key reserves. Fans await today’s submissions, knowing Vegas’ legacy hangs in the balance.
Key Takeaways
- A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young, and Chelsea Gray form the unbreakable foundation.
- Jewell Loyd and NaLyssa Smith safeguard major trade investments.
- Aaliyah Nye leads the race for the fifth spot over Evans and Bell.
What players do you think the Aces will protect? Share your predictions in the comments.
