Paige Bueckers just did exactly what she had to do

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - AUGUST 23: Paige Bueckers #5 of the Dallas Wings takes a shot during the second half against the Seattle Storm at College Park Center on August 23, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the GettyImages License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It’s been a difficult couple of weeks for the Dallas Wings, who have gone 4-7 since the All-Star break and slid to 8th place in the WNBA standings. Earlier this week, the team announced that star rookie Azzi Fudd, who was the team’s fourth-leading scorer and best perimeter rebounder, was out for the season after injuring her oft-injured right knee.

That came on the heels of 5 losses in 6 games, and injuries to first-year All-Star Jessica Shepard, among others on the roster.

So, on Sunday, hosting the Seattle Storm, the Wings needed a decisive win. And, that’s exactly what they delivered. Led by 32 points from Paige Bueckers, Dallas beat Seattle 92-70 to improve to 22-16 and secure their second consecutive win at a critical time.

Bueckers made 12 of 16 field goal attempts en route to her highest-scoring performance in over a month, hitting all 6 of her three-point attempts and adding 4 rebounds and 4 assists.

The reigning Rookie of the Year is now averaging 20.3 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, all career-bests, while improving her efficiency from the field (47.7% to 49.9%) and from the three-point line (33.1% to 37.3%).

The Dallas Wings need Paige Bueckers more than ever

With Fudd sidelined for the year, Bueckers’ scoring contributions — and outside shooting — become that much more important.

Arike Ogunbowale, the team’s second-leading scorer, has also put together some big-time performances as of late. Ogunbowale, who is averaging 15.3 points and 3.1 assists per game, exploded for 32 points in a 91-85 win over the Indiana Fever on Thursday.

And Jessica Shepard, named an All-Star starter this season, has been critical too. Shepard added 11 points and 10 rebounds on Sunday, and is the team’s third-leading scorer and second-leading playmaker. She was critical in the Wings’ win over the Fever, too, adding 26 points and 8 boards.

But no one on the roster can score at the volume and efficiency that Bueckers can, and that will need to continue if the Wings have any chance at a deep playoff run this season. The 24-year-old has undoubtedly been one of the best guards in the league, but will have to consistently perform as one of the league’s best players with Fudd sidelined.