Let's face it, the Chicago Sky have been a disaster of late. Between sanctioning questionable trade decisions and showing a lack of identity on the court, it is hard to foresee a bright future for the franchise. However, with two 2027 first-round picks in the bank and two impressive rookies on the roster, maybe, just maybe, the Sky can turn this ship around.
The 2027 draft could change the trajectory of the Sky
Before hypothetical scenarios are discussed, it should be highlighted that if Jeff Pagliocca remains in situ as Chicago's general manager, there is no telling what decisions he will make. The past is often a good litmus test of a person's character, and Pagliocca's rash spending of draft capital suggests that he is incapable of creating a team for the future. But for the sake of this conversation, let's ignore that thought process.
The class of 2027 possesses a wealth of talent, and a team could be one lottery pick away from acquiring a future superstar. If they opt to declare for the draft, Juju Watkins, Hannah Hidalgo, and Madison Booker are just a few names that would headline the players available for selection.
In a trade that saw Ariel Atkins make a move to the Windy City, the Washington Mystics received the rights to swap 2027 first-round picks with the Sky. Given that Chicago has the third-worst record (4-12) in the WNBA, it is fair to assume the Mystics will exercise this option. Nevertheless, with Washington struggling themselves, the Sky could still hold the cards to a lottery pick.
Additionally, Angel Reese's blockbuster trade to the Atlanta Dream resulted in Chicago acquiring its 2027 first-round pick -- an asset that will not be as valuable as Washington's but could still end in a highly skilled player being selected.
Other names such as South Carolina's Tessa Johnson and Ashlyn Watkins could fall down the pecking order and into the Sky's lap with Atlanta's pick. If the front office can snatch an emerging superstar with its earlier selection, the organisation could finally escape the cold, unforgiving grasp of embarrassment.
Chicago's rookie duo is proving they can aid the youth movement
Despite the Sky struggling in the regular season schedule, both Sydney Taylor and Gabriela Jaquez have been rare bright sparks during a dull period for the team. The rookie duo has continued to develop their skillsets while chaos ensues around them -- something that could benefit Chicago in the long term.
Of the two, it was Jaquez who was expected to be the standout young star on the roster -- and from an individual standpoint, she has not disappointed. The 22-year-old has averaged 10.2 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game. Statistically, Jaquez is proving to be a positive addition to the Sky's squad, but it's her energy and hustle that truly make her an important asset on this team.
Taylor has taken an entirely different journey as an undrafted rookie, but is enjoying similar results. Over 14 appearances, the 25-year-old is averaging 11.1 points while recording 16 minutes of action per game. Taylor exploded for 30 points in 21 minutes during the Sky's 114-106 overtime defeat to the Indiana Fever.
Basketball is a results-driven business, and from that perspective, the Chicago Sky are failing spectacularly. However, in the midst of all the chaos, the franchise still holds hope that a successful future is on the horizon. Through competent decision-making and a clear vision, Chicago could establish itself as one of the WNBA's most exciting young teams.
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