Aces lose starting forward NaLyssa Smith for rest of season
Las Vegas Aces forward NaLyssa Smith will miss the remainder of the 2026 season after suffering a non-contact left leg injury against the Toronto Tempo on Sunday. She averaged 11.7 points and 6.4 rebounds per game while leading the WNBA in field-goal percentage. The team has received a season-ending injury exemption and can sign a free agent to fill the roster spot.
Smith joined the Aces in June of last year and entered the starting lineup almost immediately, helping the franchise post a 21-5 record down the stretch before capturing a third championship in five seasons. Her absence creates a void at power forward, with Brianna Turner and Cheyenne Parker-Tyus both profiling more as centers and rookie Justine Pissott having logged just 81 minutes this season.
The Aces have received a season-ending injury exemption and may sign a replacement at a minimum contract, though the waiver deadline for postseason eligibility has passed. Las Vegas previously added Mai Yamamoto in July, and the upcoming FIBA break could allow a new arrival time to learn the system. The team sits third in the standings with the league's easiest remaining schedule.
This injury could reshape the WNBA playoff picture, as the Aces' pursuit of another title now hinges on how effectively they compensate for Smith's rebounding and efficiency. Fans of the league may see increased minutes for less-experienced players, potentially altering competitive balance in the postseason. The situation also highlights how roster depth and mid-season acquisitions can determine championship outcomes, affecting team strategies league-wide.