The Atlanta Dream could be getting one of their most important players back just in time for the WNBA Finals. Per reports, All-Star guard Allisha Gray is expected to return for Saturday's Game 1 matchup against the Golden State Valkyries after missing most of Atlanta's semifinal series with a finger injury. Dream head coach Karl Smesko provided an encouraging update ahead of the series opener, revealing that Gray has made significant progress in her recovery.
According to ESPN, Smesko does not anticipate placing any restrictions on Gray if she receives final medical clearance. The news comes after uncertainty surrounding her availability throughout the week. Gray injured the ring finger on her left shooting hand during Game 1 of Atlanta's semifinal matchup against the New York Liberty on Oct. 4.
Although she briefly returned to the court, the injury eventually forced her out of the game. She missed the final two games of the series as the Dream completed a sweep to advance to their first WNBA Finals since 2013. Gray underwent a minor procedure on her injured hand and gradually increased her participation in practice leading up to Saturday's opener.
On Friday, she completed her first full practice since suffering the injury, providing another encouraging sign for Atlanta. Her potential return could be especially important against a Golden State team that has established itself as one of the league's strongest defensive units. Gray averaged a career-high 19 points per game during the regular season, leading the Dream in scoring while also contributing 3.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists per contest.
Without her, Atlanta relied on increased production from Jordin Canada, DeWanna Bonner and other members of its rotation to advance past New York. However, having Gray available would give the Dream another proven scoring option as they pursue the franchise's first WNBA championship. The Valkyries present a difficult challenge after reaching the Finals in just their second season.
Golden State also swept the Las Vegas Aces in the semifinals, setting up a championship matchup between two teams that have yet to win a WNBA title. For Atlanta, Gray's return could provide a significant boost at the most important point of the season. The final decision on her availability will depend on how her injured hand responds during pregame preparations.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
