The Atlanta Dream may find themselves at a crossroads in free agency due to a significant injury setback. After once again exiting the playoffs in the first round, the Dream's performance last season still hinted at a bright future, especially with a reimagined roster featuring talents like Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, and Brionna Jones. However, as the start of the 2026 season draws near, devastating news has surfaced: Jones, who has been competing for USK Praha in Czechia during the offseason, has unfortunately torn her meniscus and will require surgery.
According to ESPN’s Alexa Philippou, there is hope that Jones will be ready for the upcoming WNBA season, but recovering from knee surgery is no small feat. Even if she is able to take the court at the beginning of the season, it’s likely that she won't be at her peak performance for quite some time. This concern could push the Dream’s management to seek out a compelling forward to fill the gap while Jones rehabilitates. Although Jones is set to become an unrestricted free agent, her strong performance last season suggests she’ll likely remain with the team.
With Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray leading the charge on the perimeter, the Dream's outside scoring looks promising. However, if they pursue a versatile forward, it could complicate their efforts to re-sign Jordin Canada and make it trickier to identify suitable role players to complete the roster. Retaining stars like Howard, Gray, Hillmon, and Jones will undoubtedly come with a hefty price tag.
There are numerous free agents who could significantly enhance the Dream's chances of becoming genuine contenders. Nneka Ogwumike should be at the top of their priority list. Last season, she averaged 18.3 points, 7 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.1 steals, while also shooting 36.7% from beyond the arc. With a new head coach and a potential shift toward a youthful roster, the Storm might pivot away from their veteran-led strategy. Should that happen, Ogwumike would likely seek a team with championship aspirations, which could very well be the Dream.
Additionally, Atlanta might consider enticing Alanna Smith from Minnesota. With Napheesa Collier expected to miss a significant portion of the 2026 season, the Lynx may not be in a position to contend. The Dream could present Smith with a starting opportunity and a chance to compete, offering her the chance to showcase excellent rim protection and reliable 3-point shooting skills.
Furthermore, Azurá Stevens, who posted averages of 12.8 points, 8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks for the Sparks last season, could also be a valuable target. Having improved her 3-point shooting after leaving Miami and Unrivaled, Stevens would ideally complement Jones's skill set.
However, if the Dream decide to chase another forward, it may signal the end of Brittney Griner's tenure with the team. Griner joined the Dream after a remarkable 11-season run with the Mercury but has seen a decline in her performance metrics across the board. Eventually, she found herself coming off the bench, as Naz Hillmon's improved shooting ability paired better with Jones's playing style.
