Image Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Angel Reese Situation Explained: How Chicago Sky’s Turmoil Could Trigger Major WNBA Offseason Trade Domino Effect

Rising speculation put Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky at a crossroads

Image Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

Angel Reese’s turbulent final stretch of the 2025 WNBA season has been influenced by both on-court absence and off-court controversy. The 23-year-old forward, averaging 14.7 points, a league-best 12.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.5 steals in 30 games, was suspended for the first half of the Sky’s September 7 game against the Las Vegas Aces for “statements detrimental to the team.”

Those comments, made in an interview with the Chicago Tribune, criticized the roster’s formation and hinted she might leave if the franchise failed to add supporting talent. Angel Reese was expected to return after halftime, but a flare-up of a back injury, the same issue that sidelined her for 10 games earlier in the season, kept her out for the remainder of the contest.

Head coach Tyler Marsh confirmed that Angel Reese reported the injury before tip-off and that her status would be evaluated “day by day.” With Chicago already eliminated from playoff contention at 10-33, the organisation faces a decision on whether to shut her down for the final game to avoid aggravating the problem.

This would mark the second straight year she ended a season early due to injury, after missing the last six games of 2024 with a wrist issue. The combination of disciplinary action, injury management, and a lost season has placed her relationship with the franchise under intense pressure.

The question now is whether Reese’s time in Chicago Sky is nearing its end. Her public frustration with the Sky’s lack of progress, two consecutive seasons without a playoff berth, has been met with mixed reactions internally.

While she later apologized and claimed her remarks were taken out of context, the suspension signalled that the front office viewed her comments as crossing a line. An anonymous WNBA executive went as far as to call Chicago “the worst-run organization in the league” and suggested Reese should “get the hell out of there” if the team’s direction doesn’t change.

From a basketball standpoint, Angel Reese’s value is undeniable. She has improved her field goal percentage from 39.1% as a rookie to 45.8% this season. She also maintained her dominance on the boards, and set a record for most double-doubles in a player’s first two seasons (46).

But her prime years are beginning now, and patience for a slow rebuild is limited. If the Chicago Sky cannot convince her that they will surround her with championship-caliber talent, the likelihood of a trade request, or the team initiating talks themselves, will grow.

Potential Destinations if Angel Reese Leaves Chicago

Should Angel Reese become available, several franchises could be quick to pursue her. The Dallas Wings are a logical suitor, with the potential to pair her with Paige Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale. Dallas, likely to hold a top draft pick in 2026, could offer Chicago a package built around that selection and young assets. Reese’s rebounding and interior presence would address a clear need for the Wings. Also, while giving her a backcourt partner capable of maximizing her offensive efficiency.

The Seattle Storm present another interesting option. With veterans Skylar Diggins and Nneka Ogwumike approaching free agency, Seattle could pivot to a younger core built around Dominique Malonga, Ezi Magbegor, and Reese.

The Storm’s championship pedigree and potential high draft pick could form the basis of a competitive offer. For Angel Reese, Seattle offers a stable, winning culture, something she has openly wanted.

The Phoenix Mercury, despite stylistic differences, are also a player in the market. Their current core of Alyssa Thomas, Kahleah Copper, and Satou Sabally could be strengthened by Reese’s rebounding and defensive versatility.

Phoenix’s “win now” approach, large market, and state-of-the-art facilities would tick many of Reese’s boxes. While the Mercury may need to part with shooters or future picks to make a deal work, their history of aggressive moves suggests they would explore it.