The Chicago Sky have stirred controversy with their latest trade during the WNBA offseason.
The exchange with the Washington Mystics could have significant implications for the franchise’s future.
Chicago Sky’s big offseason risk
In a bold move aimed at contending immediately, the Sky traded the No. 3 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft to the Washington Mystics in exchange for two-time WNBA All-Star Ariel Atkins.
The trade, however, has sparked significant criticism from fans who see it as a missed opportunity to land rising star Sonia Citron.
Citron, a standout at Notre Dame, has emerged as one of the top prospects for the 2025 draft.
The 6’1″ guard has been a force on both ends of the floor, earning accolades such as the Gatorade Player of the Year and leading her team to a perfect record this season.
Her ability to contribute on offense and defense, along with her leadership on the international stage, made her a promising addition to any team looking to rebuild.
Yet, in exchange for this future star, the Sky have brought in Atkins, a player with championship experience but one whose contract expires at the end of the 2025 season.
Atkins is known for her defensive prowess and scoring ability, having played a key role in the Mystics’ 2019 title run.
Her leadership on both ends of the floor could help a Chicago team aiming to return to playoff contention.
However, the trade has not been without its critics.
Fans are questioning the long-term impact of acquiring a player on an expiring contract while giving up a high draft pick that could have secured a potential cornerstone in Citron.
Many believe the move signals a short-sighted approach, especially considering the Sky’s recent rebuilding efforts.
The loss of the No. 3 pick, along with the additional draft assets, has left fans wondering if the team made a strategic mistake.
Chicago’s gamble on Atkins could pay off if the veteran contributes to a successful season and helps the Sky make a deeper playoff push.
But if Atkins leaves in free agency, the franchise risks looking back on this move as a missed opportunity, a gamble that didn’t pay off.
For now, Sky fans are left to watch and wait, hoping that their team’s gamble will lead to a payoff rather than a costly mistake.
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