NFL
By: Shannon Murray
An opening-night loss to the Phoenix Mercury was all it took for early questions to surface about the Las Vegas Aces.
Two games later, the Aces are responding.
After back-to-back wins over the Sparks and the Sun, Las Vegas has quickly re-centered around the rhythm, cohesion, and instinct that have defined the franchise in recent seasons.
Much of that early momentum has been fueled by Chennedy Carter, who scored 22 points against Los Angeles and 27 against Connecticut, establishing her as one of the most noticeable presences in the Aces’ early rotation.
More than anything, the last two games reminded the league that the Aces are still fully in tune with the identity that made them champions.
Chennedy Carter Changes the Energy
There is immediate pressure when Chennedy Carter steps on the court. Her game feels self-contained and clear, naturally blending into the rhythm established on the floor.
Coming off the bench, the former Dream and Sky guard applies immediate downhill pressure and forces quick defensive adjustments. With Carter’s presence, Las Vegas becomes faster and more difficult to contain in transition.
Beyond the stat line (49 points, 10 assists, seven rebounds, and three steals across the Sparks and Sun games), what stands out most is the way she moves within the Aces’ system without losing the style of play that makes her game so distinct.
Why It Feels Natural
The Aces already possess one of the league’s strongest veteran cores, led by A’ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young.
Gray anchors the team with veteran floor awareness, while Young’s efficient scoring creates balance throughout the rotation. Wilson now has more offensive support around her, allowing Las Vegas to play more freely across the court.
Carter’s presence feels natural because the intensity she plays with mirrors the identity the franchise has carried for years. She adds pressure to a team already grounded in trust and experience.
That balance may become one of the Aces’ biggest strengths this season.
Still the Standard
Reactions to Las Vegas’ opening night loss against Phoenix already feel premature. The season opener carried added emotional weight following their championship ring ceremony, requiring the Aces to navigate both celebration and competition simultaneously.
Two games later, much of the critique surrounding the franchise seems to be fading. Chennedy Carter’s early impact only strengthens that outlook.
Vegas is already building on what made the franchise successful over the past few seasons. With another matchup against the Sun ahead and the Dream waiting on Sunday, the next few games will test whether the Aces can continue evolving within a rapidly changing league.
