The Dallas Wings have been playing without Azzi Fudd for nearly a week, and they have had to find different ways to keep their season moving. The rookie missed the Wings’ losses to the Golden State Valkyries and Minnesota Lynx before sitting out Wednesday’s 94-88 win over the Toronto Tempo. Dallas finally snapped a three-game losing streak with Paige Bueckers leading the way, finishing with 22 points and eight assists.
Fudd’s absence has been particularly noticeable on the defensive end and from the perimeter. The No. 1 pick has quickly become an important part of Dallas’ rotation, averaging 13.1 points, 1.7 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.7 steals while shooting 45.6% from the field and 39.7% from three. She had also started 24 of her 30 appearances this season.
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Fans had hoped Fudd’s absence was just a minor setback. However, she was again ruled out of Friday’s game against the Fever with right knee soreness, marking her fourth consecutive absence.
The Wings improved to 20-14 with Wednesday’s win and currently sit seventh in the WNBA. They face a Fever team that has climbed to 21-12 and fourth in the league.
Fudd’s defensive ability will be especially difficult to replace against Indiana, who boast elite scorers like Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston and Sophie Cunningham.
Friday’s matchup tips off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. With 10 games left in the regular season, Dallas will have another opportunity to prove it can keep its momentum going while Fudd works her way back.
