Caitlin Clark's injury may have revealed a solution to the Chicago Sky's point guard woes months ago. When Courtney Vandersloot suffered a torn ACL early in the 2025 season, the Sky had a chance to sign Odyssey Sims, a veteran point guard with a proven track record. Sims, a former All-Star and skilled scorer, was waived by the Sparks and was available for the taking. The Sky, however, decided not to sign her, and she ended up with the Indiana Fever.
The Fever, in need of a point guard after season-ending injuries to Caitlin Clark, Aari McDonald, Sydney Colson, and Sophie Cunningham, found their answer in Sims. She delivered consistently, especially during their surprising run to the semifinals, averaging 14.1 points, 2.3 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.4 steals in the playoffs. Sims was a key factor in the Fever's wins against the Atlanta Dream and Las Vegas Aces.
If Chicago Sky GM Jeff Pagliocca had any doubts about Sims' ability to contribute to a winning team, those doubts were dispelled. The Sky should consider adding Sims to their roster for the 2026 season, as they desperately need a playmaker and scorer. Sims' ability to run the offense and make plays for her teammates is exactly what the Sky lack.
The Sky's big move for the 2025 season, signing Courtney Vandersloot, didn't yield the desired results. Vandersloot's ACL tear limited her to just 7 games, and the Sky finished with a worse record than the previous season. A 36-year-old point guard recovering from a major injury is unlikely to be the solution for the Sky's playoff aspirations in the upcoming season.
While Sims may not have Vandersloot's championship experience or All-WNBA team selections, she has proven her ability to lead a winning team. Sims is a capable scorer, averaging around 15 points per game, and she also averaged 3.8 assists per game over 24 regular-season games with the Sparks and Fever. Her experience in 42 playoff games further strengthens her credentials.
Despite her impressive performances, Sims has struggled to secure long-term contracts recently. However, her free-agent status should attract attention, and her reasonable price tag could be a win for the Sky. With the opportunity to re-sign Atkins and upgrade the roster, the Sky could offer Sims a significant role and the chance to play with two young stars.
However, the Sky's lack of facilities and reputation as one of the worst-run organizations in the WNBA could be a challenge. The team's recruiting pitch might be weakened, making it more realistic to target a player like Sims rather than chasing big-name stars who prefer top facilities and winning teams.
