Chennedy Carter’s China Success Could Derail Chicago Sky Negotiations

It’s January 2025 already. This means the Chicago Sky are heading into the critical phase of the offseason. With free agency about to open, the team faces a dilemma over the decision looming with Chennedy Carter. Despite having averaged 17.5 points per game in the 2024 season, Carter’s future with the team is uncertain. No doubt, she’s a breakout star for the Sky, stepping up as the team’s primary scorer. But it’s her offensive style that could create a dilemma for the Sky’s roster construction moving forward.

One of the biggest struggles of the team last year was their 3-point shooting. They ranked last in the league in both attempts (14.5) and makes (4.5) per game. New head coach, Tyler Marsh has made it clear that this would be an area the team largely focuses on for the coming year. Now here comes the problem for Carter and Sky.

The 4-year veteran has been one to heavily rely on her 2-pointers. She averaged 48.7% from the field last season, her career best. This limits the spacing needed for a team centered around its frontcourt. The pairing of Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso there, has proven beyond well for the Sky. So if Carter were to return to the Windy-City, her skills would have to be limited. This becomes increasingly difficult considering the star guard has only built on it during the off season.

Playing for the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association, Chennedy Carter is averaging an impressive 30.7 points per game. She’s reportedly taking at least four more shots than she did in the WNBA, while her 3-point average remains 25%.

However, the guard hasn’t been off the Sky’s radar. There’s mutual interest. But Carter’s recent jab at one of her previous teams could hint at differences spoiling the party.

Chennedy Carter suggests she had more to offer

Denver Nuggets star, Russell Westbrook, recently made a remark during a post-game interview, stating he was not provided the opportunity to put his skills to use. “To be honest, (my skill-set) was unique, they just didn’t put me in position to be unique. I was in a position where I was playing not my position,” he said. Chennedy Carter took to X to respond with the post. “ngl I felt this !!!! lol,” she wrote.

While Carter could be directing the comment at any of her previous teams, including LA Sparks, where she was waived from last season, the situation at Chicago Sky could place her in a similar position. Given the uptick last season, she’d likely avoid anything to hinder. But purely from her role for the Sky in 2024, the management has expressed interest in having her back on the team.

“She was very valuable,” general manager, Jeff Paglliocca, had said. “She’s a player that can impact the game at the highest level in this league. She’s a player we’re going to make sure we keep an eye on and engage when it’s time.” Carter had also admitted to enjoying her season with the Windy City. She clearly stated that if the team wanted to have her back, she would be. But things remain uncertain for now.

The Sky have until mid-January to extend a qualifying offer to the star guard and match the offer she receives from other teams.