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Chennedy Carter will play for the Chicago Sky against the LA Sparks on Saturday, as per ESPN's WNBA injury report. Carter’s return, after dealing with a non-Covid-related illness a few days ago, should be a big boost for the Sky. Without the feisty guard, Chicago lost at home 85-65 to the Phoenix Mercury to open the second half of the WNBA season.
Carter has earned a crucial role for the Sky this season after getting a training camp invite. She began as part of Teresa Weatherspoon’s bench before carving a role with the starting lineup. The former Spark is averaging 17.2 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.3 steals this year.
What happened to Chennedy Carter?
Chennedy Carter was a late scratch in Chicago’s showdown with Phoenix on Thursday. The Sky probably hoped she would be fine in time for tip-off. When the training staff figured she wasn’t ready, they removed her from the active list.
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Carter missed her first game of the season for Chicago and her absence was clearly felt. Without her, the Sky didn’t have their best perimeter defender against a team with Kahleah Copper and Diana Taurasi. Copper, who led Chicago to the 2021 WNBA championship, ran rings around her defenders. Copper finished with a game-high 29 points, three assists and two rebounds.
The fourth pick in the 2020 draft would have been Copper’s primary defender had she not been ruled out.
Chicago’s transition defense should improve with the return of Carter
The Phoenix Mercury outscored the Chicago Sky 11-6 in transition but the slight edge did not tell the whole story. Phoenix consistently caused problems by pushing the ball every time it had possession. Rachel Banham and Lindsay Allen struggled to slow down their opponents’ pace and the Sky paid dearly.
The issue will not be entirely solved with Chennedy Carter’s return but she will be a big boost. Los Angeles arguably isn’t as potent as Phoenix in transition but Carter's presence is a plus for Chicago.
Chennedy Carter vs Rickea Jackson is an interesting matchup
The LA Sparks, who have been dealing with injuries to key players, have leaned heavily on Dearica Hamby and rookie Rickea Jackson. As Hamby normally operates in the paint, Jackson will pose an interesting matchup for Chennedy Carter.
LA’s rookie has gotten more comfortable as the season has progressed. The No. 4 pick in this year’s draft averages 11.5 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.3 assists per game. Jackson’s speed and ability to get to the rim will be key. Carter will likely get the task of containing the rookie.
