The Las Vegas Aces fell to 5-4 this weekend, picking up two losses to the Los Angeles Sparks and the Seattle Storm.
The team that once had its foot promptly on the throat of many teams around the league last season has struggled to find consistency during the early part of this season.
Considering that they are only nine games into the season, and based on how A'ja Wilson is playing, the Aces still have plenty of time to turn it around. However, with how some things are shaping up around the league, we may finally be seeing some cracks in the foundation, putting their dynasty in jeopardy.
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Injuries Woes in Vegas?
In the last couple of years, the Aces' core four of Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, A'ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray have all managed to avoid significant injuries, which has greatly aided their championship aspirations over the past few seasons.
But now they are struggling early out of the gate without one of their key pieces.
All-Star Chelsea Gray, who suffered a lower leg injury in Game 3 of the 2023 WNBA Finals against the New York Liberty, is still out for the Aces.
Jackie Young has even battled an illness this weekend, missing the Aces game against the Sparks.
Gray has been a monumental part of the Aces success over the past few seasons. Last season alone she looked like their second best player, posting 15.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game.
Without her it's hard to imagine Las Vegas competing for a third championship, as the Aces need to get back to full strength.
Parity Problem
(Photo : (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images))
The Las Vegas Aces have benefited from an absolute parity around the league.
Las Vegas was able to coast to the WNBA Finals last season, however, things are drastically different this year.
They already have their fourth loss on the season, all but one coming from the Western Conference foes.
Their losses over the weekend came from the Storm who are amid a six-game winning streak and the Sparks, who are 4-7, having surprised many so far this season.
The Aces are set to play the (6-2) Minnesota Lynx, who have found life with Napheesa Collier playing at such a high level. This will then be followed by a match with the Mercury on June 13th, who already have a victory over the Aces.
It's evident that teams around the league are a lot better this year, and the Aces will have to step up if they hope to compete this season.
A'ja Wilson's Legendary Run
Wilson had 31 points in the Ace's matchup against the Sparks. However, her performance was not enough for them to defeat LA.
Despite the losses, A'ja Wilson has looked very impressive throughout the season.
Wilson has scored 20 or more points in 14 of the Aces' last regular season games, dating back to last year.
She is currently averaging 28.3 points and 11.8 rebounds per game this season.
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