The Chicago Sky have faced a challenging 2024 season, hampered by injuries and disappointing performances. Once considered playoff contenders, the team’s hopes faded as key players struggled to stay healthy or meet expectations. Angel Reese, an All-Star, has played only two games since the All-Star break due to a persistent back injury, casting doubt over her continued participation this season.
ESPN’s Michael Voepel Questions Reese’s Return
ESPN analyst Michael Voepel expressed skepticism about Angel Reese’s chances of returning to the court this year. His concerns are influenced by more than just Reese’s health; they focus on the overall futility of the Sky’s current situation. After suffering a recent loss to the league’s worst team, the Connecticut Sun, Chicago’s record seems poised to fall even further.
Voepel wrote,
“There’s likely less incentive for Reese, who last played on July 29, to return. The Sky aren’t going to be a playoff team; considering their loss to Connecticut on Wednesday, they might even drop behind the Sun for the league’s worst record.”
—Michael Voepel, ESPN Analyst
The team’s injury troubles extend beyond Reese. Courtney Vandersloot is sidelined with a torn ACL after just seven games this season, and first-round pick Hailey Van Lith has yet to prove herself a reliable contributor.
Struggles Against the League’s Weakest Teams Deepen Concerns
The Sky’s recent heavy defeat to the Connecticut Sun, the team holding the worst league record, underscores Chicago’s difficulties. If Angel Reese does not return to play, the team’s situation worsens, with little hope for a late-season turnaround. Even if the Sky managed to win a few games in Reese’s absence, some analysts argue that bringing her back might not influence the overall outcome of their season.
Caitlin Clark’s Contrasting Situation with Indiana Fever
In comparison, Caitlin Clark—a rival to Reese—has also been sidelined but is expected to make a comeback. Clark has appeared in only thirteen games this season, last playing on July 15, but Indiana’s fortunes are on firmer ground. The Fever seem likely to reach the playoffs for the second consecutive year after a long drought, and Clark’s return could significantly boost their chances of winning a playoff series.
Voepel noted,
“Unless the bottom completely falls out, the Fever will be in the playoffs for the second year in a row after a seven-season absence. Clark has played just 13 games, the last on July 15… But if she’s deemed physically ready to come back, it could give Indiana more of a chance to win a playoff series.”
—Michael Voepel, ESPN Analyst
Angel Reese’s Future Hinges on Her Own Decision
Ultimately, the decision to return to action rests with Angel Reese. Despite the team’s grim outlook and the doubts raised by analysts, Reese has given no clear signs that she prefers to stay off the court. Should she choose to play, she is likely to participate as much as her health permits, regardless of the Sky’s overall standing.
Implications for Chicago Sky Moving Forward
Angel Reese’s uncertain comeback highlights the broader challenges facing Chicago Sky this season. The team’s injury-plagued roster and poor performance make a playoff run improbable, and the absence of one of their top players only deepens their struggles. As the season draws to a close, the Sky will need to focus on rebuilding and planning for the future, hoping to restore health and competitiveness next year.