Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

ESPN Expert Reveals 'Downside' for Angel Reese Amid Sky Improvement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated May 15, 2025 8:56 AM ET

Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese is expected to remain a double-double machine in the 2025 WNBA season; however, that doesn't mean all of her stats will increase.

In fact, a recent prediction from ESPN sees Reese's production in one key area decreasing as a result of the changes the Sky made during the offseason.

During her rookie year in 2024, the WNBA All-Star averaged 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game. Her dominance on the glass was particularly highlighted by her 5.1 offensive boards, which allowed the Sky to get more second-chance scoring opportunities.

Nonetheless, with ESPN reporter Kevin Pelton predicting the Sky's offense to improve and become more efficient with the presence of WNBA veterans such as Courtney Vandersloot, Ariel Atkins, Kia Nurse and Rebecca Allen, it could also mean fewer offensive rebounding chances for Reese.

"About the only downside for Reese is that an improved Sky offense could mean fewer rebound opportunities after she joined Yolanda Griffith as just the second player in league history to average at least five offensive rebounds per game last season," Pelton explained.

For what it's worth, ESPN's fantasy projection for Angel Reese predicts her to still improve her overall rebounding numbers, albeit just for a little bit at 13.2. That being said, it's possible to see the 23-year-old's defensive rebounding numbers increase.

Fortunately for fans, the wait to see how Reese will fare in her second season won't be long. The Sky open their 2025 campaign against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on Saturday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: