The Chicago Sky kicked off their 2026 free agency period with a blockbuster move, shocking fans by trading star forward Angel Reese. In exchange for their former first-round pick, the Sky acquired first-round draft picks in 2027 and 2028, along with a 2028 second-round pick.
Chicago fans were deeply disheartened by the team’s decision to part ways with Reese. During her time in the Windy City, she quickly made a name for herself, earning back-to-back All-Star nods in her first two seasons. The young forward averaged an impressive 14.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game across both years.
Despite the Sky holding the WNBA’s worst record, supporters viewed Reese as the franchise’s beacon of hope. With her departure, many fear the team’s future has gone dark. While the organization gained valuable draft assets in return, the move risks long-term stability—especially if Reese continues her trajectory toward becoming an elite league superstar.
How the Trade Affects Chicago’s Future
The immediate concern for Chicago is replacing a player who has already proven she can dictate games at a high level so early in her career. In just two years, Reese led the league in rebounding and broke the franchise’s single-season rebounding record in each of her first two seasons (tallying 377 and 446 boards, respectively).
Outside of rebounding, Chicago ranked near the bottom of the league in nearly every statistical category. They finished second in rebounds, almost exclusively thanks to Reese. Without her, the team loses its only positive on-court identity.
This puts immense pressure on management to find a replacement this offseason, whether through free agency or the upcoming 2026 WNBA Draft. However, Chicago currently holds the fifth overall pick. Meanwhile, the Mystics have the right to swap first-round picks in 2027 with the Sky. Furthermore, top-tier free agents are rarely eager to sign with a last-place team. Consequently, the front office is forced to bank entirely on their accumulated draft capital to replace Reese’s massive production.
Ultimately, trading Angel Reese is a high-stakes gamble for Chicago. While draft picks are essential tools for a rebuild, they offer no guarantee of replicating the leadership and production she brought to the floor. Reese is just the latest marquee player to leave the Sky.
Kahleah Copper, Elena Delle Donne, Sylvia Fowlkes, Candace Parker, and Courtney Vandersloot either were traded by the Sky or left the organization by choice. However, neither was pushed away as early as Reese was.
If Reese continues to elevate her game and cements herself among the WNBA’s elite, the Sky may deeply regret dealing a promising franchise cornerstone. Only time will tell the true outcome of the team’s decision.
