The Wings have a crucial mission for the upcoming season: to demonstrate their ability to nurture and retain top young talent. It's a challenge they've struggled with since 2019, when they began their journey in Dallas. Out of the fifteen first-round draft picks made during this period, only a handful remain with the team today. The rest have either moved on to new teams or, sadly, left the league altogether.
But here's where it gets controversial: the Wings believe they can turn things around and prove their worth. They're eyeing a potential comeback for Awak Kuier, their second overall pick in 2021. Despite her young age and inexperience at the time, Kuier's numbers didn't quite match the expectations set by her high draft position. However, she's been tearing it up with Galatasaray Cagdas Factoring Istanbul, and the Wings' GM, Curt Miller, is eager to bring her back to Dallas.
And this is the part most people miss: Kuier's return could be a game-changer. If she rejoins the W for the next season, her improved performance will not only boost the Wings' roster but also validate their initial decision to draft her so highly. It's a chance for the Wings to prove that they can develop young players and set them up for successful careers.
However, the Wings haven't always had the best track record with their draft picks. Since moving to Dallas, they've struggled to make it past the first round of the playoffs, missing the postseason altogether on five occasions. The problem lies not in the quality of their draft picks but in their ability to retain these players and create a stable roster.
For instance, in 2019, the Wings drafted Arike Ogunbowale, who has remained with the team ever since. However, this was an exception rather than the rule. The following year, the Wings drafted Satou Sabally, Bella Alarie, and Ty Harris, but Sabally left after the 2024 season, and Alarie retired after just 53 games. Ty Harris returned for a second stint with the team this past season after a brief stint with the Sun.
In 2021, the Wings had three first-round picks, selecting Charli Collier, Awak Kuier, and Chelsea Dungee. Unfortunately, both Collier and Dungee are no longer with the team. Collier was waived in 2023, and Dungee lasted only 14 games. The following year, the Wings drafted Veronica Burton, who also left after two seasons, now shining as a star for the Valkyries.
The 2023 draft was a slight improvement for the Wings, as at least one of their first-round picks, Maddy Siegrist, remains on the roster. Siegrist, the third overall pick, continues to contribute to the team. However, the Wings still face challenges, having lost some of their 2024 first-round picks, including Jacy Sheldon, who was traded to the Sun, and Carla Leite, who wasn't protected in the expansion draft.
So, the question remains: Can the Wings turn their draft fortunes around and prove that they can develop and retain top talent? Will Awak Kuier's potential return be the turning point they need? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss the future of the Wings!
