The Chicago Sky are considering roster changes as they head toward the trade deadline on Thursday, aiming to improve their chances for a playoff spot in 2025. With ongoing struggles this season despite coaching and roster adjustments, the team may look to trade key backcourt players as part of their rebuilding effort.
Potential Trades Focused on Backcourt Players to Shape Future
Sports analyst Jack Maloney from CBS Sports reported that Chicago might trade Rebecca Allen and Rachel Banham to create opportunities for growth next season. Both players have attracted interest due to their shooting skills, making them valuable trade candidates.
Banham is near the end of her two-year contract valued at $190,000 and currently leads the Sky in three-point shooting with a 37.2% success rate. Meanwhile, Allen ranks fourth in outside shooting percentages among Sky players attempting at least 3.6 three-point shots per game, adding significant offensive value.
While acknowledging that trading Banham or Allen might not immediately transform Chicago’s record, Maloney highlighted the strategic potential for building future assets. He stated,
“The Sky should be sellers at the deadline,”
Maloney wrote on Tuesday.
“Rebecca Allen and Rachel Banham figure to draw the most interest from other teams due to their shooting ability, but the Sky really should listen on just about any offer that doesn’t involve [Angel] Reese or [Kamilla] Cardoso.”
Maloney also emphasized the importance of salvaging positives from a disappointing season.
“This is quickly becoming a lost season in Chicago, but [Sky GM] Jeff Pagliocca can salvage something from this summer by adding future assets this week,”
Maloney said.
False Reports of Coaching Changes Surround the Sky
Earlier this week, a claim circulated on social media that Sky head coach Tyler Marsh had been let go and replaced by former Indiana Fever coach Christie Sides for the rest of the season. This rumor, originating from a tweet by user ravyn lenae enthusiast, quickly spread but was not confirmed by any reputable news sources.
There has been no official announcement regarding Marsh’s dismissal or Sides returning as head coach in the WNBA. Despite these false reports, Marsh faces the challenge of steering the team through a difficult season and aiming for a strong finish in 2025.
Next Steps and Outlook for the Chicago Sky
As the trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Sky’s management will weigh offers involving Allen and Banham carefully, focusing on future growth rather than immediate turnaround. Preserving prized players like Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso remains a priority, signaling a commitment to their core talents while reshaping other parts of the roster.
The decisions made during this period could influence the team’s trajectory beyond the current season, setting the foundation for attempts to secure a playoff position in the coming year. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Chicago navigates these challenges in pursuit of long-term success.