The shorter season encourages the higher end Aussies to play here in the WNBL and still be able to earn a considerable amount in Europe after the season finishes. The way it was before, players who were in finals sides could really only fit 2 months of the European season in - this new fixture allows finals players to go to Europe for 4.5+ months. I don't think at this point in time the WNBL can compete with the European clubs in terms of money, so the opportunity for those who are good enough to go to Europe to also be able to play at home is a good one.
IMO it will only build the league and it's popularity, having the majority of the Opals in Europe instead of the WNBL isn't really ideal for increasing exposure.