What happened: A'ja Wilson is again at the center of the WNBA's MVP discussion as early-season award projections take shape. She continues to be cited as a standard-setter on both ends of the floor, scoring efficiently while anchoring the defense.

Why it matters: Wilson's sustained two-way dominance keeps her squarely in the MVP race year after year, and her form is the engine behind Las Vegas's championship ambitions. An MVP-level Wilson reshapes the title picture every season she plays at this level.

What to watch: Watch whether Wilson holds her two-way production as the MVP field tightens and the first All-Star voting returns roll in.