What happened: NaLyssa Smith suffered a non-contact left leg injury Sunday against the Toronto Tempo and left the game immediately. Las Vegas received a season-ending injury exemption that allows it to add a player on a minimum contract.
Why it matters: The Aces must replace their starting power forward and leading source of second-chance opportunities. Chelsea Gray or Jewell Loyd could take more frontcourt minutes when Las Vegas closes with a smaller lineup.
By the numbers: Smith averaged 11.7 points and 6.4 rebounds while leading the WNBA with a 63.8% field-goal rate. Las Vegas went 21-5 after adding her last season before winning the championship.
What to watch: The 17-day FIBA break gives Las Vegas time to pursue a replacement and adjust its rotation. The first lineup after the break will show how those frontcourt minutes are divided.