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While Atlanta Dream coach Tanisha Wright wants her team to push the pace on offense, ball security remains a concern entering Friday night's road game against the Dallas Wings at Arlington, Texas.
The Dream (7-11) have committed at least 15 turnovers in three straight games, although they still remain one of the better teams at protecting the ball with 12.4 turnovers per game, third best in the league.
Wright's squad tallied a season-high 18 turnovers in Tuesday's 85-77 home loss to the Chicago Sky. It was Atlanta's second straight setback and its ninth in 12 games following a 4-2 start.
"We have to do a better job understanding that we want to play fast ... but with that, we still need to take care of the ball," Wright said. "Those are opportunities and shots on goal that we're not getting."
The Dream's recent turnover troubles have added a new challenge to an offense that has struggled to score this season. Atlanta's 76 points per game and 40.4 field-goal percentage each rank last in the WNBA entering Thursday's action.
All-Star guard Allisha Gray leads the Dream with 15.8 points per game. She scored 21 in Atlanta's 83-78 home win over Dallas on May 21 in the teams' first meeting this season.
A porous Wings defense allows a league-high 88.9 points per game. Dallas surrendered a season-high 104 points in an eight-point home loss on Wednesday to the Phoenix Mercury, the Wings' 14th defeat in their last 15 games.
Exactly halfway through its 40-game regular season slate, Dallas (4-16) has drastically regressed after posting a 22-win campaign last year.
The Wings have played the entire season so far without 2023 All-Star Satou Sabally because of a shoulder injury. Natasha Howard missed 12 games earlier this year with a broken foot, but she delivered a career-high 36 points with 11 rebounds on Wednesday.
Her breakout performance complemented a 26-point game from Arike Ogunbowale, who has scored at least 20 points in all but two of her 19 games this season and averages 23.8 per contest.
Howard and Ogunbowale were both key contributors to Dallas's run to the semifinals last season, and coach Latricia Trammell appreciates their leadership amid this year's trying campaign.
"They bring that championship mentality anytime we step on the floor," Trammell said. "I don't expect anything less from them."
More must-reads:
- Caitlin Clark drops mic on Kelsey Plum's Instagram post
- Angel Reese continues to be a rare bright spot for the Sky
- The 'Most NBA games played' quiz
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'It’s Been A Journey': Caitlin Clark Sees Silver Lining In Injury Rehab Learning More How Her Body And Mind Responds
Caitlin Clark has always been a physical force on the court—until this season. For the first time in her career, her body is teaching her that sprinting hard day after day isn’t guaranteed. Sitting out due to a groin strain has forced Clark to rethink how she treats herself. “This is the first time I haven’t felt like a young body that can run around and sprint every day and just continue to do that. Being a professional athlete, you really have to take care of both your body and your mind. It’s been a journey learning about that.”— Caitlin Clark on Saturday She’s digging deep, leaning on the Fever’s sports psychologist and sessions multiple times a week. She’s been pouring out her stress and her joys, and it’s providing resets during rehab. “We have a sports psychologist on our staff who I sometimes meet with multiple times a week… I don’t just talk about things that stress me out but also the joys in my life, and that’s always a good reminder and reset for me.” — Caitlin Clark Clark is combining therapy with a full rehab toolbox: red-light therapy, dry needling, hyperbaric oxygen chambers, and more. She’s treating rehab like a pro—not just waiting to return, but learning what it means to heal. Her journey also mirrors the Fever’s own mid-season state. With a 12‑12 record, the team is pushing toward the playoffs while managing without their star. Coach Stephanie White says Clark’s return remains “day-to-day,” with New York doctors weighing in. Mental care is just as important. Clark relies on journaling, sleep routines, Disney movie breaks, and calming music—little actions that bring balance during recovery Stephanie White Offers No Timeline on Caitlin Clark’s Return Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White gave a cautious update on Caitlin Clark’s injury ahead of their game against New York. “Stephanie White says there’s no update on Caitlin Clark or a potential timeline,” The Athletic’s Chloe Peterson tweeted. “Clark met with another doctor this morning, but White says she hasn’t spoken with trainers about that yet.” It’s unclear when Clark might return. This marks her tenth missed game this year due to a groin strain—her third such injury after a quad strain and left-groin flare-up. White emphasized a methodical, day‑to‑day approach: Clark’s condition is progressing, and the team is using multiple medical opinions to guide decisions. With Indiana 12‑12 as they prepare for a road stretch, Clark’s return timing matters. Team analyst Carolyn Peck suggested resting Clark through July’s road games, so she can rehab at home and return stronger. For now, the league and fans can only wait. But if Clark’s comments are any clue, this moment may shape how she plays—and lives—in the long term.
Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani ties franchise record with HR vs. Twins
MLB's midseason break was kind to Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter and starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani. On Wednesday, the three-time MVP tied a Dodgers franchise record with a home run in his fifth consecutive game, taking Minnesota Twins right-handed starting pitcher Chris Paddack 441 feet to centerfield on an 0-2 79 mph curveball in the bottom of the first inning. Ohtani entered the All-Star break with 32 home runs but had just two in his 12 previous games before beginning his current streak. He's appeared in 101 of L.A.'s 103 games, putting him on pace for 159 games this season. If Ohtani continues at his home run trajectory, he'll set a personal record for single-season home runs, breaking the record he established last season, his first with the Dodgers. Per ESPN Bet, Ohtani (-1800) is an overwhelming favorite to be named NL MVP for the second consecutive season. With every home run hit, his odds of receiving a fourth overall MVP award likely increase. Also helping Ohtani's case is his return to the mound after not pitching a season ago while rehabbing from 2023 surgery. The Dodgers have slowly eased him back, with Ohtani throwing 12 innings in six starts, allowing nine hits and two earned runs with 13 strikeouts. Per Baseball Savant, he ranks in the top six percent in average fastball velocity (97.8 mph), a promising sign as he continues his progression. While the Dodgers keep him on a pitch count, Ohtani didn't need much warming up at the plate following the in-season break to find his swing. Some might argue he's already in postseason form.
Chicago Blackhawks reportedly set to trade 25-year-old goaltender to Stars rival, Edmonton Oilers
The Chicago Blackhawks, a crowded goaltending situation and trade rumors involving the Edmonton Oilers have fans wondering if the Stars' rivals could soon upgrade their crease before training camp. With training camp approaching, Chicago general manager Kyle Davidson has five goalies under contract, including Spencer Knight, Arvid Soderblom, Drew Commesso, newly signed Stanislav Berezhnoy, and veteran Laurent Brossoit. Only two NHL roster spots are available, which has fueled speculation that Brossoit could be moved to a contender, with Edmonton emerging as a leading candidate. For Stars fans, seeing the Oilers potentially bolster their crease should raise eyebrows. Edmonton, fresh off a deep playoff run, is looking to avoid the same issues that hurt them late in the postseason. "The Blackhawks have too many goalies and not enough spots, and Brossoit's contract and experience make him a natural trade chip for a team like the Oilers."-Julien Trekker Chicago's goalie logjam and Berezhnoy's recent signing are detailed further at NHL.com. Dallas could see its rival upgrade as Blackhawks explore trading Laurent Brossoit Brossoit, 32, carries a $3.3 million cap hit for one more season. Drafted by Calgary in 2011, he's appeared in 140 NHL games, including time with Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Vegas, where he helped the Golden Knights win the Stanley Cup in 2023. While Chicago decides, Drew Commesso continues to push for NHL time after posting a .911 save percentage over 39 AHL games. For a deeper look at Commesso's performance, his full profile is on Elite Prospects. I think if Edmonton lands Brossoit or even Commesso, Dallas may have to plan around a deeper Oilers team come playoff time, especially given how tight the Western race looks on paper.
5 Commanders oozing superstar swagger on strong Day 1 of camp
Football is back, and the Washington Commanders are embarking on their most crucial part of preparations for the 2025 campaign at training camp. Excitement hasn't been higher where the Commanders are concerned, at least for the last two decades if not more. Dan Quinn led his team on a truly remarkable run to the NFC Championship game last time around. But for this incredible early success to be sustained, everyone must turn the page accordingly. Looking at the mentality in the locker room, there's nothing for fans to worry about on that front. There is a strong will to win and go one better. Every player, whether they're an established franchise cornerstone or an undrafted rookie looking to make their way, is on the same page. And they will have no problem calling out their teammates if standards are slipping. Terry McLaurin's absence as he awaits a new contract was the only lingering cloud hanging over the franchise. The wide receiver is taking a stand, and the Commanders haven't budged as yet. But given the player's professionalism and team-first mindset, he'll be ready to hit the ground running upon rejoining his teammates. Until then, others will be tasked with picking up the slack. With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who oozed superstar swagger on Day 1 of training camp. Commanders players who oozed superstar swagger on strong Day 1 of camp Von Miller - Commanders DE/OLB Fans were pleading for general manager Adam Peters to sign another edge rusher before the season. They were starting to panic, but those in power always had one primary option in mind. The Washington Commanders signed future Pro Football Hall of Fame pass-rusher Von Miller on a one-year deal. He's firmly in the tail-end of his career, and the former No. 2 pick out of Texas A M is far from the force of old, but there's a growing sense he can make an impact for Joe Whitt Jr.'s defensive front, albeit in the short term. Miller, who is wearing No. 24 in Washington to honor close friend Champ Bailey and the late Kobe Bryant, left a positive impression on Day 1. There is a natural aura about the player that others naturally gravitate towards. And given the accomplishments he's accumulated throughout a glittering career, the respect he commanded was instant. The Commanders won't task Miller with too much. Dan Quinn and his staff know he'll be ready when the time comes, so they can take things slowly and keep complications to a minimum. However, there was enough to suggest he can impact proceedings in some capacity. Deebo Samuel Sr. - Commanders WR All eyes were on wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. to begin training camp. There is no Terry McLaurin around as yet, so the recent trade acquisition from the San Francisco 49ers moved into the No. 1 spot until further notice. Samuel's heard all the criticism coming his way this offseason. Accusations of being overweight and out of shape were rife from analysts and former pros. The former second-round pick stayed grinding, working hard away from the team in pursuit of hitting the ground running at training camp. The dedication is already reaping rewards. Samuel looked lean and sharp to kick off camp. And it didn't take long for his developing chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels to turn heads. On Daniels' first pass of scrimmages, he made a statement. Tyler Owens, who was getting first-team reps in the nickel, had pretty good coverage on Samuel. The throw was good, the route was good, and the catch was clinical. This represents a small glimpse of what Samuel can bring to the Washington Commanders. The Niners might have given up on the wideout, but general manager Adam Peters was confident that there was still a lot of good football left. And the South Carolina product is doing everything possible to repay this faith. So far, so good. Noah Igbinoghene - Commanders CB The Commanders' cornerback room is expected to become an area of strength if everyone meets expectations and, more importantly, stays healthy. One player has gotten lost in the shuffle somewhat, but Noah Igbinoghene was quick to remind people why general manager Adam Peters gave him another one-year deal this offseason. Igbinoghene is coming off the best campaign of his professional career in 2024. It wasn't perfect, but there were glimpses of why the Miami Dolphins took him in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. And it's also worth remembering that he's still just 25 years old entering his sixth season. Washington drafted Trey Amos in the second round. They signed free-agent Jonathan Jones. Mike Sainristil is a superstar in waiting, and Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore looks explosive after finally getting over his frustrating hamstring issue. That will make it more difficult for Igbinoghene, but his impressive start on Day 1 of training camp indicates he won't be going down without a fight. The former Auburn standout looked assured, forcing an outstanding incompletion with tight coverage on rookie wideout Jaylin Lane. There's no way Igbinoghene isn't going to make the squad, but stronger efforts like this could see him retain his place as a key part of the rotation, too. Jacory Croskey-Merritt - Commanders RB There is an enormous sense of intrigue around Jacory Croskey-Merritt. The seventh-round running back made an impressive start to the Washington Commanders' offseason program. He wasted no time in making a similar impact when training camp commenced. Croskey-Merritt plays with a chip on his shoulder. The NCAA revoked his eligibility one game into his transfer to Arizona, which saw his draft stock plummet. He had to wait until the No. 245 pick before the Commanders came calling, but the rookie isn't carrying himself like a roster bubble candidate. One cannot help but be impressed by the way Croskey-Merritt goes about his business. There is urgency to everything he does, and this came across once again on Day 1. The backfield threat set the tone early by exploding for a touchdown. Croskey-Merritt also displayed his athletic elusiveness by juking away from safety Ben Nikkel for another big gain later on. This is a positive start from Croskey-Merritt. In all honesty, nobody should have expected anything less. Croskey-Merritt is not coming to settle for a secondary role. He aims to make an immediate impact on the offensive rotation and make a lasting contribution in whatever role is assigned by the coaching staff. Preseason and joint practices will provide more insight, but the trajectory is pointing upward. Ja'Corey Brooks - Commanders WR Terry McLaurin is officially holding out on the reserve/did not report list until his new contract extension gets resolved. The wide receiver is in the area and will be ready to go immediately after some middle ground is reached. Until then, other wide receivers are getting a chance to stake their respective claims. Not many are anticipating a long holdout. McLaurin is too pivotal to the team's plans for that, so those further down the pecking order must take advantage of increased role until the alpha dog gets back into the fold. The significance wasn't lost on Ja'Corey Brooks. He's looking to surge into roster consideration after going undrafted out of Louisville. A poor 40-yard dash time hurt his stock enough for teams to look the other way. However, the Commanders believe he can become a rough diamond with the correct coaching throughout the summer. Brooks was among the standout performers on Day 1 of training camp. He was an extremely difficult cover for opposing defensive backs during scrimmages, displaying his solid blend of athleticism, body control, and ball skills to full effect. The first-year pro was rewarded with two touchdowns — one from Jayden Daniels and another from Marcus Mariota. If Brooks keeps this up, he's got a fighting chance. More Commanders news and analysis
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