WNBA fans roast Chicago Sky after surprising Ariel Atkins trade

On Sunday, the Chicago Sky and Washington Mystics agreed to a trade, per the WNBA.

“The Washington Mystics trade the contract of Ariel Atkins to the Chicago Sky in exchange for Chicago’s own 2025 1st round draft pick (#3), the right to swap the teams’ own 2027 1st round draft picks, and Chicago’s own 2027 2nd round draft pick,” the WNBA wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Atkins is a good player and Chicago has made an effort to upgrade the roster. However, fans were not exactly thrilled with the trade considering everything that the Sky gave up to acquire Atkins. Trading the No. 3 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft especially caught fans’ attention.

“Good player but could’ve got they and went younger which that good play would longer. That Sky front office is just plain fu**ing sports stupid. Creating a winner through the draft with high picks is most optimum,” one fan wrote on X.

“This is bad!!!! I would have been happy if they got the Mystics 4th pick and Atkins,” another fan wrote.

One fan even compared the deal to the shocking Dallas Mavericks-Los Angeles Lakers Luka Doncic-led trade.

“Atkins trade might be worse than Luka trade. Citron or Amoore would’ve been amazing there. Horrendous Overpayment- 2 2nd rd picks would’ve been enough- But 3rd OVERALL & 27 Pick swap- You can’t be serious,” the fan wrote.

A fourth fan simply called the deal “horrendous.”

“What a horrendous trade Chicago gave up the 3rd pick in the draft.”

It is seemingly unlikely that the Sky will re-sign Chennedy Carter at this point. Carter is one of the most underrated players in the league. Replacing her was never going to be easy, but Atkins will help matters. The Sky’s decision to trade the No. 3 pick was surprising, but Atkins’ talent should not be overlooked.

The 28-year-old is a two-time All-Star who had previously spent her entire career in Washington with the Mystics before Sunday’s trade. She most recently averaged 14.9 points per game in 2024. Atkins added 3.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 43.7 percent from the field. Additionally, the veteran guard recorded a 35.7 three-point shooting percentage.

The Sky are looking to build a contender around Angel Reese. Reese established herself as a star during her rookie season in 2024, but Chicago needs more talent around her.

Fans are seemingly frustrated with the move, but they are not bashing Atkins’ talent. Rather, the fans are surprised at the massive trade return. Nevertheless, Atkins could be a tremendous fit in Chicago with the Sky.