Chicago Sky Swing Big Trading 2025 WNBA Draft Pick to Mystics for Ariel Atkins
The Chicago Sky made it clear they intend to be competitive immediately, which was evident by the team trading the No. 3 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft to the Washington Mystics for Ariel Atkins.
At first glance the Chicago Sky trading away the No. 3 pick in the upcoming 2025 WNBA Draft as part of a win now move could seem desperate. Which is likely going to be the initial reaction from many to the deal that saw the Sky acquire 2x All-Star Ariel Atkins from the Washington Mystics.
However, much like was the case with the trade the Los Angeles Sparks made to snag Kelsey Plum, often a proven player is worth more to a team than the potential of a pick. And when it comes to Chicago, the Sky had already inked a veteran floor general in Courtney Vandersloot this offseason. A signing that should have been an indication of the franchise's intentions.
In Atkins the Sky have landed a scorer and shooter who fills the void left by Chennedy Carter and provides the roster with a piece in an area where it was severely lacking. Without adding some punch on the perimeter, Chicago was destined to be a futilely ineffective offensive team. Something that appeared to be a non starter for the organization's decision makers after the boost the squad saw in attention during the rookie season of Angel Reese.
https://www.si.com/onsi/womens-fastbreak/analysis/chicago-sky-swing-big-trading-2025-wnba-draft-pick-to-mystics-for-ariel-atkins-01jmtrqy4ffa