Minnesota Throws a Wrench in Chicago’s Bold Plan to Pair Angel Reese with the Perfect Partner!
The Sky need to fill the spot left empty by Chennedy Carter’s departure.
Angel Reese is waiting for reinforcements, but the Chicago Sky face strong competition in the free agent market.
Angel Reese needs help, and the Chicago Sky know it. Despite the stellar performance of the rookie, the team fell short of making the playoffs. That’s why management is looking to bring back one of its former stars, Courtney Vandersloot. However, to achieve this, they’ll have to snatch her from one of their great rivals.
Vandersloot spent 12 seasons with the Sky and was a fundamental part of the team that won the WNBA championship in 2021. After her departure from Chicago, the shooting guard played with several teams, primarily in European leagues. In 2023, she returned to the WNBA with the New York Liberty.
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The 15-year veteran signed a two-year deal with the Liberty, which ended when the team lifted the championship trophy last September. Analysts have pointed to several destinations for Vandersloot, but two seem to have an advantage: Chicago and Minnesota.
The Lynx have a spot for Vandersloot
Journalist Mitchell Hansen explained in an analysis for Canis Hoopus that Minnesota is looking for reinforcements to help them win the title that New York snatched from them in 2024. According to Hansen, the team has its sights set on Alyssa Thomas, Emma Meesseman, and Vandersloot.
The shooting guard is looking for a starting position after being a backup star for the Liberty, but she also wants a team that will give her another chance to reach the championship. Since New York has not offered her an extension nor protected her as a core player, her best option may be Minnesota.
While the Lynx are looking for a backup for star Courtney Williams, Vandersloot’s good relationship with head coach Cheryl Reeve and the chance to win another championship could convince her to move to Minnesota.
What about Chicago?
The Sky surprised everyone by letting go of leading scorer Chennedy Carter, leaving second-year players Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso without an experienced backup on the court and in the locker room. This is where Vandersloot could find a place.
The big issue is the salary cap. Chicago has $923,625 available heading into next season, but they also have six open spots they need to fill to be a contender.
With the right moves, the Sky can be a serious playoff contender, but their chances at a title are less clear. Can the team’s front office entice veteran Vandersloot? Free agency is right around the corner, along with the answers.
