2017 WNBA Preview: How big can Atlanta Dream without Angel McCoughtry?

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The Dream finished just one game back of second place in the East last season. Ultimately, there’s enough uncertainty around the league to think that if McCoughtry plays half the season, or their young players develop quickly, Atlanta has a chance at the playoffs. After Los Angeles, Minnesota, Phoenix, New York and Seattle, the other seven teams have question marks. Chicago, with Delle Donne, was just 18-16, so they could fall back without her. Indiana loses Tamika Catchings and coach Stephanie White, who left for Vanderbilt. Although Washington adds Delle Donne, they were 13-21 last season, and it may take time for them to get their chemistry together. Connecticut, San Antonio and Dallas all added talent through the draft, but still have a long way to go.

ATLANTA, GA – JULY 7: Head coach Michael Cooper of the Atlanta Dream looks on in a WNBA game against the Tulsa Shock on July 7, 2015 at Philips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2015 NBAE (Photo by Scott Cunningham/NBAE via Getty Images) /

To grab a playoff spot, Atlanta will need to be a top three defensive team, continue rebounding, and they’ll need better ball movement to make up for McCoughtry’s absence collectively. The pieces are there for Atlanta to survive without Angel, and their offense could become even more efficient.

If they get McCoughtry for 15 to 20 games, and Williams, Hayes and Clarendon all get better, they could nab the 7 or 8 seed. If not, this team might be looking at a top three pick in next year’s draft. They understand the questions surrounding the team with the loss of McCoughtry, but their confidence hasn’t wavered.

“The eight best teams make the playoffs and we plan on being one of them,” said Cooper.

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