Why is Natasha Howard not playing tonight vs Sky? Latest status of Dallas’ star forward explored - May 18, 2024

Natasha Howard’s broken foot will likely cause the Dallas Wings to struggle over the next 3-6 weeks. Already without WNBA Most Improved Player winner Satou Sabally, the Wings’ frontline and overall game will take a big hit due to Howard’s injury. The three-time champ had a solid performance in the Wings’ debut this season against the Chicago Sky but will now be shelved until healthy.

Howard’s all-around brilliance shined in Dallas’ 87-79 victory on Wednesday. She played roughly 36 minutes and had a 15-point, 13-rebound, five-assist and two-steal night. Together with Arike Ogunbowale, they fended off the Sky who made a desperate run in the final quarter.

Natasha Howard didn’t look like she had any injury so the news leading into the rematch with the Sky was quite shocking.

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When will Natasha Howard return?

If Howard’s return will be around the three-week period, which may be unlikely, she could be in uniform by mid-June. The Dallas Wings will host the Connecticut Sun on June 15, so that might be a date to watch out for. If she is uncleared to play in that said matchup, she could be ready two nights later versus the Lynx in Minnesota.

If the 2019 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year gets the green light following a six-week recovery, she may be ready by the last few days of June or early July. The Wings will host the Lynx on the 27th of next month and a date with the Seattle Storm on the 29th. Howard could appear in any of those games.

Dallas could also hold her out until early July. If that will be the case, a rematch with the Storm on the 1st or a showdown with the Phoenix Mercury two nights later could be her return date.

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How will the Wings replace Howard in the lineup?

Dallas Wings coach Latricia Trammell has limited options to replace Natasha Howard in the lineup. The team signed former Atlanta Dream forward Monique Billings to a salary cap hardship contract per ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. Billings averaged 5.9 points and 5.0 rebounds in six years with the Dream. She might have to be Howard’s replacement in the starting lineup.

Billings might also have to play the power forward spot together with Stephanie Soares so Kalani Brown can continue backing up Teaira McCowan. Neither Billings nor Soares has Howard’s playmaking, scoring versatility and clutch shooting. Dallas has no choice but to do what it can until the two-time All-Star returns.

Trammell’s roster looked ready to compete without Satou Sabally until August. Natasha Howard’s injury will test the Wings’ determination and resolve.

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