Natasha Howard’s debut with the Liberty lasted just two games.
New York announced on Wednesday that Howard has an MCL sprain and will miss 4-6 weeks while recovering. The veteran forward picked up the injury to her left knee in the fourth quarter of the Liberty’s win over the Dallas Wings on Monday night.
Howard’s absence is significant for the Liberty, who are currently tied with the Connecticut Sun atop the WNBA standings at 5-1. New York has experience playing without her, however, going 4-0 before Howard joined the team following her season overseas.
Howard, acquired by the Liberty this offseason from the Seattle Storm, was already making her presence felt. Through two games, she averaged 14.5 points and 6.5 rebounds. A three-time WNBA champion and the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year, Howard brought experience to one of the youngest teams in the league.
The Liberty will continue their playoff quest without Howard, starting Saturday in the team’s home game against the Dream.