2026 has been a bust for the New York Liberty. A playoff semi-final appearance shouldn't paper over a bitterly disappointing season for a franchise expected to compete for top honours. In 2027, something has to change. New York's big hitters aren't producing the results expected of them; moving away from their core would be the exact reset needed for a championship tilt. And of the four superstars on this roster, Sabrina Ionescu and Satou Sabally seem like the most sensible departures.
Ionescu and Sabally had seasons to forget, each for a different reason. Sabrina failed to ignite the offensive spark that propelled her into stardom throughout her college and WNBA journey. The 28-year-old averaged 14.6 points and 4.7 assists per game, while shooting 38.8% from the floor and 29.5% from deep -- all of which were her lowest numbers since 2021.
Meanwhile, Satou lost a battle with Lady Luck and couldn't get a clean bill of health after signing a two-year, $1,670,750 contract in New York. The dynamic forward featured in just 13 games for the Liberty, averaging 10.4 points per game. The team can't expect to be as dangerous without such a valuable asset for prolonged periods of the season.
The Liberty can't afford to waste more prime Breanna Stewart years. With her on the roster, the organisation is in a championship window; she is that influential. Ionescu may have been an integral part of New York's 2024 championship campaign, but it is clear this relationship has run its course. Moving on from herself and Sabally could benefit both parties.
Pauline Astier is New York's present and future
Sabrina Ionescu is one of the best shooters the WNBA has ever laid eyes on. However, when she is struggling for efficiency, the Oregon alum doesn't offer enough on the defensive end of the floor to help maintain her team's momentum. In fact, it could be argued that her defensive limitations hinder the Liberty's ability to clinch victory.
This is far from the case with Pauline Astier. While the rookie may not hold the same prestigious reputation as her teammate, Astier can make a positive impact both offensively and defensively. And with just one year of WNBA experience to her name, the 24-year-old still has plenty of room for development.
During her rookie campaign, Astier averaged 9.3 points, 3.3 assists, and 0.8 steals per game, while shooting 54.6% from the floor. What the numbers don't show is Astier's impressive defensive attributes -- most notably on the perimeter. She forced her matchups into countless turnovers throughout the year due to her relentless hustle and positioning.
Despite a scintillating start to the season, in which she recorded 18+ points three times in her first four appearances, the rookie found herself on the bench once Ionescu returned to full fitness. In hindsight, this decision actually weakened New York's early-season cohesion and made them a less formidable foe in the eyes of the opposition.
If head coach Chris DeMarco is granted the opportunity to stay in situ, he must convince the front office to make drastic roster changes. The New York Liberty need a shake-up if they wish to be in championship contention next season. Nobody in their right minds would consider moving on from Breanna Stewart, or even Jonquel Jones, for that matter. Sabrina Ionescu and Satou Sabally's departures make the most sense, and both players hold trade value to other franchises around the W.
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