WNBA insider highlights two key reasons for Chennedy Carter not receiving qualifying offer from Angel Reese-led Chicago Sky

The Chicago Sky and their star rookie, Angel Reese, fell short of a playoff spot in 2024. After an underwhelming 13-27 campaign, Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca could be looking for major moves in the offseason.

With the signing period around the corner, one of the key issues looming remains fifth-year guard Chennedy Carter's contract. Carter, who is a restricted free agent, is coming off a solid season where she led the Sky roster in points and ranked third in assists. Carter was a key figure for the Sky lineup last season, averaging 17.5 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 3.1 apg and 1.1 spg.

On Monday, WNBA reporter Annie Costabile confirmed that Chicago had made qualifying offers to Michaela Onyenwere, Dana Evans and Nikolina Milić, but left out Carter from that list.

In a previous article from Costabile for the Chicago Sun Times released on Saturday, the journalist highlighted two key reasons Carter could miss out on an offer.

"There are questions about her commitment to the team on the court and its culture off it that could contribute to the Sky being unwilling to even make the offer," said Costabile.

Costabile also pointed out that Chicago holds the No. 3 pick in the WNBA draft. Several highly rated guards would be available in the first three picks including UConn's backcourt duo of Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd. Notre Dame point guard Olivia Miles could also be an interesting option to partner with Angel Reese.

WNBA teams can make qualifying offers and assign "core" designations until Jan. 20 and can start negotiating deals with free agents from Jan. 21 onwards. On Feb. 1, free agents will officially be able to sign contracts with teams.

Chicago has already parted ways with coach Teresa Weatherspoon in September and hired Tyler Marsh as the new head coach. Marsh will be looking to build a competitive roster around young stars Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, and could dip into the free agency to sign established stars.

Angel Reese makes pitch to bring 4-time All-Star Kahleah Copper back to the Windy City

Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese looks to pass the ball against the Las Vegas Aces at Wintrust Arena. Photo Credit: Imagn

There will be plenty of big-name WNBA stars available in free agency, and Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky will be aiming to add some star talent over the coming months.

During a recent media session for women's basketball tournament Unrivaled, Reese was asked about her pitch to potential free agents that may be considering Chicago. Reese, who was sitting beside talented guard/forward Kahleah Copper, didn't hide her admiration for the four-time All-Star.

"Get Kah back, Get Kah back," said Reese.

Kahleah Cooper spent the majority of her career with the Chicago Sky, playing 224 games for the franchise between 2017-2023. Last season, Cooper averaged 21.1 ppg, 4.5 rpg and 2.3 apg over 27 games with the Phoenix Mercury.