Chicago Sky get massive playoff push boost right when they need it most

The sun is shining a little brighter in Chicago on Thursday. No, it doesn't have to do with the start of the NFL season and the Bear's home-opener on Sunday. Instead, it has to do with Chennedy Carter and the Sky.

Chicago has lost seven games in a row, with its last win on Aug. 17 (almost three weeks). The post-Olympic break hasn't been kind to the Sky, notably Carter. She missed the Sky's past four losses with an illness that required a hospital stay. Her absence has been a reminder that there are things bigger than basketball.

A couple of days ago, Carter was discharged from the hospital. Sky fans celebrated the good news, not because it meant she might return to the court. Her health is of the utmost importance, so it's a great sign that she was able to return to practice on Thursday.

Chennedy Carter returns to Sky practice as playoff race gets tighter

The Sky host the Sparks on Friday. Los Angeles has lost eight of its last 10 games. If Carter is fully cleared to return, her return could be enough to end Chicago's skid. The Sky have thoroughly missed her offensive production (subscription required).

Chicago is one of four teams fighting for the final playoff spot. The Sky are clinging onto the No. 8 seed with an 11-22 record. The Dream are on the Sky's heels with an 11-22 record, and Chicago has the 2-1 head-to-head tiebreaker over Atlanta. Their Sept. 17 matchup looms large.

The Sky will also play two more teams fighting for the No. 8 seed in their final seven regular-season games when they play on Sunday against Dallas (9-24 record) and against Washington (10-23) on Wednesday.

If there was ever a time for Carter to return, it's now. Even though the last few weeks have been ugly for Chicago, the Sky can still hold onto the final playoff spot. Let's see what Weatherspoon's squad can do.