Chennedy Carter’s scoring tear highlights opportunity for expansion franchises

Despite being the standout performer during the Chicago Sky’s 2024 campaign, Chennedy Carter now finds herself plying her trade overseas in the Women’s Saudi Arabia Basketball League and without a contract in the WNBA.

However, with the WNBA Finals nearing a conclusion, free agency and trade rumors will begin to circulate. After a string of scintillating performances during her time in the Middle East, there is no doubt that Carter will be a name that is on every front office’s mind — especially as two expansion franchises will be entering the league in 2026.

Toronto Tempo and Portland Fire may take a chance on Carter

One thing that cannot be denied when it comes to the former Chicago Sky sharpshooter is her elite ability to put points on the board, no matter who the opposition is in front of her. During her time in ‘The Windy City’, the 26-year-old averaged 17.5 points and 3.1 assists, even though the team struggled to exhibit an effective offensive game plan.

It appears that her devastating scoring antics have continued in Saudi Arabia, as Carter has averaged a mind-blowing 34.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, and four assists over her last 10 games. Yes, the quality of the league may not mirror the WNBA; nevertheless, the statistics showcase that the Texas A&M graduate still has a lot to offer a team developing its foundations.

However, previous misdemeanors and disciplinary issues could be a valid reason for teams such as the Toronto Tempo and the Portland Fire to avoid acquiring a player who possesses a vast amount of talent.

During her sophomore season with the Atlanta Dream in 2021, Carter was suspended due to an altercation with veteran guard Courtney Williams, which resulted in the guard eventually being traded to the Los Angeles Sparks.

Her stint on the West Coast ended dramatically after just one season, as more disciplinary problems left the franchise with no choice but to waive Carter at the end of the 2022 season.

After a year break from the league, Carter returned to the WNBA with the Chicago Sky to partner with the then-rookie Angel Reese. The controversial guard was the center of attention again as she brutally fouled Indiana Fever’s superstar Caitlin Clark — a move that saw her lambasted by the fans and media alike.

The question is not in relation to Chennedy Carter’s remarkable ability on the court, but about her conduct off of it. Would an expansion franchise be making a substantial mistake by acquiring a player who has displayed detrimental behaviour on numerous occasions?