As the Chicago Sky prepare for the upcoming WNBA season, their preseason ranking has not generated the excitement fans might hope for, particularly for star player Angel Reese. The team’s position in the power rankings reflects a challenging offseason that included significant roster changes, including the recent trade for Ariel Atkins.
Atkins, a two-time All-Star, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the teams backcourt. Her ability to score and defend adds depth to a lineup that is still searching for its identity after losing key players. With Atkins joining the team, Chicago aims to bolster their competitiveness in a league that has seen many teams improve through free agency.
However, the team’s ranking currently places them in the lower tier, indicating skepticism about their potential to contend this season. Analysts have noted that while Atkins is a valuable addition, the overall roster still requires significant contributions from existing players to elevate the team’s standing.
The preseason rankings also reflect the broader shifts in the league, where teams like the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx have made headlines with their stellar offseason moves. As the Sky navigate this competitive landscape, they will need to leverage Atkins’ experience alongside their younger talent to remain relevant in playoff conversations.
Chicago Sky Lands 10th Spot of Bleacher Report’s Latest WNBA Power Ranking
Chicago’s offseason hasn’t changed the franchise’s outlook for next season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Nekias Duncan.
As a quick disclaimer, there’s room for movement here once we get closer to the regular season. As of this writing, the Sky only have nine players under contract. The draft plus late additions in free agency—do they bring back Isabelle Harrison? —will make it a little easier to break down and project with this roster.
As it stands: It’s hard not to be excited about the Angel Reese (balling in Unrivaled) and Kamilla Cardoso (balling in China) duo up front. The addition of Vandersloot should make life much easier for them. Her entry passing and screening should lead to deeper catches and more fruitful scoring opportunities.
As the season approaches, the coaching staff will be tasked with integrating Atkins into their system effectively. This will involve not only adjusting offensive strategies but also ensuring that defensive cohesion is maintained. The success of this integration could significantly influence the team’s performance in the highly competitive Eastern Conference.
While Chicago’s preseason ranking may not be encouraging, the addition of Atkins could be a game-changer. With Angel Reese and other key players stepping up, the Sky have the potential to surprise critics and improve their standing. The upcoming season will be a defining moment for the team as they strive to establish themselves as serious contenders in the WNBA.
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