NaLyssaSmith

News: 1 day agoSmith posted 11 points (4-5 FG, 3-4 FT), 13 rebounds, three blocks and an assist in 18 minutes during Sunday's 94-78 preseason win over the Japan National Team.

Spin: Smith was the Aces' only starter to play under 20 minutes during Sunday's preseason opener, but she led the team in rebounds en route to a double-double. The 25-year-old saw an uptick in production after being traded to the Aces from the Wings last year, and she averaged 8.2 points and 5.3 rebounds in 22.7 minutes per game across 27 regular-season appearances with Las Vegas. Although the Aces were playing without A'ja Wilson (rest) during Sunday's matchup, Smith should be in the mix to be a reliable fantasy contributor in 2026.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Smith heads into 2026 as an intriguing fantasy target ahead of her first full season with the Aces. The 2022 No. 2 overall pick split time between Dallas and Las Vegas last season, capping the campaign off with a championship ring. She thrived after the trade to the Aces, averaging 8.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 1.2 stocks in 22.7 minutes across 27 appearances (26 starts). While those numbers were a marked upgrade from her first 18 games (15 starts) in Dallas, they were well below what she produced during her first three seasons in the WNBA, when she had a lead role for Indiana. After Las Vegas retained her alongside A'ja Wilson, Smith profiles as a capable 20-plus-minute contributor with defensive upside. Although Smith's upside over a partial season with the Aces was somewhat limited last year, she'll likely have the opportunity to provide consistent production again in 2026.