Are Lynx clear championship favorite after blockbuster trade?

The Lynx, who had the WNBA's best record entering Sunday, have a strong chance to win their fifth championship. FanDuel Sportsbook gives them +165 title odds, tied with the New York Liberty (17-10) for the league's best. 

Acquiring Carrington improves Minnesota's prospects. In 39 games with the Connecticut Sun in 2024, the 27-year-old guard was named the league's Most Improved Player after logging career highs in points (12.7) and steals (1.6). She also earned a first-team All-Defensive nod. 

Carrington joined Dallas in a four-team trade in February. The 2021 second-round pick played 20 games for the club, averaging 10.4 points, 1.1 steals and 1.8 assists.

Carrington should make Minnesota's defense even more stingy. The Lynx allowed the league's fewest points (75.4) through 29 games.

Minnesota forward Napheesa Collier, a league MVP candidate, is tied for third in the WNBA in steals (1.8) through 26 games. She and Carrington could form a tandem that flusters opposing offenses.

The primary concern regarding the guard is her high turnover rate. Per the WNBA's website, Carrington's turnover ratio (15.4) ranks 127th among 173 eligible players. (This stat measures how often a player loses the ball relative to the number of possessions they have.)

However, the figure could improve with a better supporting cast. Except for rookie guard Paige Bueckers, Dallas lacks star power. The Wings (8-21) had the league's third-worst record entering Sunday. This likely contributed to Carrington forcing the issue offensively.

The Liberty beat the Lynx in five games in last season's WNBA Finals. Perhaps Carrington will help Minnesota get revenge if it faces New York again in the championship.