The Las Vegas Aces entered Sunday's matchup against the Golden State Valkyries looking to maintain their position near the top of the Western Conference standings. However, the team's focus once again shifted away from the court and toward the status of one of its most productive offseason additions.
After already missing the Aces' previous two games, Chennedy Carter was officially ruled out again due to illness, extending an absence that has generated significant discussion among WNBA fans. Carter has been one of the league's most efficient scorers this season, making her continued absence a notable development for a Las Vegas team with championship aspirations.
Aces Rule Carter Out Again
According to the Aces' injury report, Carter will not play Sunday against the Golden State Valkyries because of illness.
The decision marks Carter's third consecutive missed game after she was unavailable for recent contests against both the Phoenix Mercury and Dallas Wings.
Las Vegas has continued to win games despite her absence, but there is no denying the impact Carter has made when available this season.
The 27-year-old guard has averaged 14.4 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.4 assists while shooting a remarkable 61.5% from the field and 52.6% from three-point range. Those numbers rank among the most efficient scoring marks in the WNBA and helped establish Carter as one of the Aces' most important offensive weapons early in the season.
Carter's Absence Continues to Draw Attention
While the Aces have maintained that Carter is sidelined because of illness, her absence has fueled speculation across social media. Much of the discussion stems from recent online rumors involving Carter's social media activity, along with reports that she was not traveling with the team during portions of her absence.
The speculation has only intensified as the missed games have piled up. However, the only official information released by the organization continues to be Carter's illness designation. There has been no indication from the Aces that her status is related to anything beyond health concerns.
Las Vegas Hopes to Get a Key Contributor Back Soon
For now, the Aces will continue leaning on stars such as A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, Jackie Young and Jewell Loyd while Carter remains unavailable.
The timing is unfortunate, given how effective Carter had been before stepping away from the lineup. Through 10 games, she was averaging nearly 15 points per contest despite playing fewer than 18 minutes per game.
Her scoring punch helped give Las Vegas another dynamic offensive option alongside its established core.
Carter's next opportunity to return will come Tuesday when the Aces face the New York Liberty in one of the most anticipated matchups on the WNBA calendar. Until then, Las Vegas will have to move forward without one of its most efficient and productive players.
