Minneapolis, MN – The Minnesota Lynx will be without a key piece of their bench rotation as they begin their second-round playoff series. Guard Dijonai Carrington has been ruled out of Sunday’s Game 1 against the Phoenix Mercury due to a left foot injury. The news comes after she was seen on crutches and wearing a protective boot at teammate Alanna Smith’s co-Defensive Player of the Year press conference a few days ago.

Carrington, who was acquired mid-season in a trade with the Dallas Wings, appeared to have sustained the injury in Game 2 of the Lynx’s first-round series sweep of the Golden State Valkyries. The nature of the injury beyond “left foot” has not been specified, which leaves some cause for concern given the potential severity of foot injuries. The team is expected to provide more updates after Sunday’s shootaround and pregame activities.

The absence of Carrington is a significant blow for the Lynx. She has been a crucial spark off the bench, providing both high-energy defense and efficient shot-making. In the playoffs, she has been a top performer in the league in plus-minus per game, with a remarkable +11, showcasing her positive impact on the court whenever she’s in the game. Her ability to shoot the lights out and play hard-nosed defense will be sorely missed.

The Minnesota Lynx, who were the only team to sweep their first-round opponent, will commence their best-of-five series against the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday, September 21st, at 4 p.m. at Target Center.