Chicago Sky Acquire Ariel Atkins and No. 3 Pick Swap Option
The Washington Mystics are making some serious moves as they look to the future. They’ve traded their longtime star, Ariel Atkins, to the Chicago Sky in exchange for the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. But that’s not all—they also snagged the option to swap first-round picks with Chicago in 2027 and picked up an extra second-rounder for that same year.
This trade is a clear sign that Washington is heading in a new direction. After missing the playoffs last season and parting ways with their general manager and head coach, the Mystics are hitting the reset button. With three first-round picks in this year’s draft—Nos. 3, 4, and 6—they’re in a great position to reload with young talent.
Jamila Wideman, the Mystics’ new general manager, emphasized the importance of this move. “This trade is about setting ourselves up for long-term success,” Wideman told ESPN. “We’re building a foundation that can carry us forward for years to come.”
Chicago Sky Go All-In on Playoff Push
On the flip side, the Sky are gearing up for a serious run at the postseason. They’ve been busy this offseason, adding key players to build around young stars Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso.
Bringing in Ariel Atkins gives them a tough, experienced guard who knows how to win. Atkins has been a defensive anchor for years and has proven she can knock down shots when it matters. Since being drafted in 2018, she’s been a steady presence in the league, winning a championship with Washington in 2019 and earning five All-Defensive team honors.
Chicago’s general manager, Jeff Pagliocca, made it clear that this move is about taking the team to the next level. “Ariel is a game-changer,” he said. “She’s the kind of player who makes her teammates better, and her experience will be invaluable as we push for a deep playoff run.”
Atkins has averaged 13.4 points per game in her career while shooting 36% from three. Her ability to defend multiple positions and provide a reliable scoring option makes her an ideal fit for Chicago’s plans.
Mystics Betting Big on the Draft
The Mystics have made it clear—they’re building for the future. Having three first-round picks in one draft is rare, and Washington is in a prime spot to grab some of the best young talent available.
Wideman spoke about the team’s approach. “The future of this league is incredibly bright, and we want to be a destination for the best up-and-coming players,” she said. “This draft is a huge opportunity for us.”
The ability to swap first-round picks with Chicago in 2027 adds another layer of strategy to this deal. If the Sky struggle down the line, the Mystics could end up with an even better pick.
Losing a player like Atkins is tough, especially for fans who have watched her grow into a leader. But Washington is playing the long game. They’re not just trying to be good for one season—they want to build a team that can compete for championships for years to come.
Source: Mystics trade Ariel Atkins to Sky for No. 3 pick, more
Chicago’s New Look: A Team on the Rise
The Sky have been making moves left and right this offseason. Alongside Atkins, they’ve brought back former franchise icon Courtney Vandersloot and added Kia Nurse and Rebecca Allen. It’s clear they’re focused on surrounding their young stars with veteran talent.
With Vandersloot running the offense and Atkins providing a strong two-way presence, Chicago has a much more balanced roster. The team’s spacing and perimeter shooting should improve, which will also make life easier for Reese and Cardoso in the paint.
Chicago head coach Teresa Weatherspoon now has plenty of options. Atkins’ versatility gives the team flexibility, allowing them to mix and match lineups depending on the opponent.
What’s Next for Ariel Atkins and the Mystics?
For Atkins, this trade is a fresh start. After spending her entire career with Washington, she now gets the chance to be a key piece for a playoff contender in Chicago. Expectations will be high, but she’s proven time and again that she can handle the pressure.
One thing to watch is her contract situation. Atkins is in the final year of her deal, and with a new WNBA collective bargaining agreement set to change salary structures in 2026, she could be a priority re-signing for Chicago. If she fits in well, the Sky will likely try to lock her up for the long term.
For Washington, everything now hinges on the draft. Can they turn their picks into stars? Can they build a roster that can compete in the years ahead? The answers to those questions will define this trade’s success.
Wideman and new head coach Sydney Johnson are making it clear that they’re focused on the long haul. “We’re not rushing this process,” Wideman said. “We’re building something sustainable. This is just one step in that journey.”
As the WNBA offseason continues, fans will be watching closely to see if the Mystics’ draft gamble pays off—and whether the Sky’s win-now approach brings them the success they’re hoping for.
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