After facing a difficult season in 2020, the Chicago Sky were expected to make some major changes. The team, which had its worst season since 2006, was in need of a complete overhaul. This was especially evident after Angel Reese, the Sky’s general manager, publicly criticized the front office and the team’s performance. She made it clear that the team needed to acquire top-notch players in order to bounce back from their disappointing season. However, the Sky have surprised many by dodging the expansion draft and making strategic moves in the early stages of free agency.
It is no secret that the Chicago Sky struggled last season. They only managed to win 12 games out of 22 and finished 8th in the league. This was a far cry from their impressive 2019 campaign, where they reached the playoffs and even made it to the semi-finals. With such a steep drop in performance, it was clear that changes needed to be made in order to get the team back on track.
In an effort to turn things around, the Sky have been very active in the early stages of free agency. One of their key moves was signing Australian player Ezi Magbegor. The 21-year-old, who was drafted 12th overall in 2019, brings a lot of potential and talent to the team. Magbegor had a successful rookie season with the Seattle Storm, averaging 6.5 points and 3.7 rebounds per game. With her strong defensive presence and ability to score inside, she is expected to make a big impact on the Sky’s roster.
Another major signing for the Sky was veteran forward Candice Dupree. Dupree, who has been in the league for 15 years, is a proven scorer and has been named to six All-Star teams. She will bring valuable experience and leadership to the team, especially in light of the departure of All-Star player Cheyenne Parker. Dupree’s addition will also provide a much-needed boost to the Sky’s frontcourt, which struggled last season.
Apart from these big signings, the Sky have also re-signed key players like Allie Quigley, Courtney Vandersloot, and Azurá Stevens. These players have been instrumental in the success of the team in the past and their return will ensure continuity and stability for the Sky. The team also acquired talented guard Dana Evans in the draft, who will provide depth and versatility to their backcourt.
While the Sky have made strategic moves in the offseason, it is important to note that they have also managed to dodge the expansion draft. The WNBA held an expansion draft for the first time in 15 years, as the league welcomed a new team, the Dallas Wings. This draft allowed the Wings to select players from existing teams, with each team being allowed to protect a limited number of players. The Sky were smart in their selections, protecting their core players while still leaving enough talent for the new team to choose from.
One player who was not protected, however, was Gabby Williams. The young forward, who is currently playing overseas, was not included in the Sky’s protected list. This raised some eyebrows, especially since Williams is a talented and versatile player who has shown potential in her first two seasons with the Sky. However, it is reported that the Sky are in talks with the Wings to retain Williams through a sign-and-trade deal. This shows that the Sky are making calculated moves to ensure that they have a strong and balanced roster.
With all of these strategic signings and moves, the Chicago Sky are showing that they mean business this season. They are determined to bounce back from their disappointing 2020 campaign and have their sights set on a championship. With a talented and experienced roster, led by All-Stars Quigley and Vandersloot, the Sky have the potential to make a deep run in the playoffs.
It is clear that the Sky have taken Reese’s comments to heart and have made it a priority to acquire top-notch players. They have also managed to strategically navigate the expansion draft, showcasing their shrewdness and determination to succeed. With the WNBA season set to kick off in May, the Chicago Sky are definitely a team to watch out for. They have the potential to surprise everyone and make a strong comeback, and fans will be eagerly awaiting their performance on the court.
