Washington Mystics Struggle with Chicago Sky after Brittney Sykes Trade

The Washington Mystics, the youngest roster in the WNBA, struggled with the Chicago Sky after losing leading scorer Brittney Sykes to the Seattle Storm. The Mystics, who have dropped three games in a row, are adjusting to the trade and have a game against the Minnesota Lynx on Friday. The Sky snapped an eight-game losing streak, led by Elizabeth Williams and Kamilla Cardoso.

Title: Washington Mystics Struggle Post-Brittney Sykes Trade, Sky Snaps Losing Streak

The Washington Mystics, the youngest roster in the WNBA, faced a significant setback on Tuesday night when they lost to the Chicago Sky. The loss came just hours after the team traded all-star guard Brittney Sykes to the Seattle Storm for a 2026 first-round pick, veteran forward Alysha Clark, and guard Zia Cooke [1]. The Mystics, who have dropped three games in a row, are now adjusting to the trade and preparing for a crucial game against the Minnesota Lynx on Friday.

The Mystics' leading scorer and vocal leader, Sykes, was traded to the Seattle Storm for a 2026 first-round pick, veteran forward Alysha Clark, and guard Zia Cooke [1]. The team then waived Cooke and forward Sika Koné. The trade was part of the Mystics' draft-and-develop strategy, aiming to build a strong future while maintaining playoff contention [1].

The Mystics have been struggling since the trade, losing their last three games. The team's current record stands at 13-15, with a game behind the Golden State Valkyries for the final playoff spot [1]. The Chicago Sky, on the other hand, snapped an eight-game losing streak, led by Elizabeth Williams and Kamilla Cardoso [3].

The trade for Sykes has been a significant move for the Seattle Storm. The Storm, currently sixth in the standings with a 16-13 record, traded Alysha Clark, Zia Cooke, and their own 2026 first-round pick for Sykes [2]. Sykes, who was averaging 15.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.2 steals with the Mystics, was named to the All-Star Game as an injury replacement for Caitlin Clark [2]. The Storm's move is seen as a major sign of intent to improve their offense, which has struggled in recent games [2].

The Mystics, however, have positioned themselves well for the future. With an exciting group of young talent and a host of draft picks, the team is well-positioned to build a strong core [2]. The trade for Sykes has increased the Mystics' chances of falling into the lottery, which could provide them with additional picks for their rebuild [2].

The trade deadline is set for 3 p.m. Thursday, and there is still plenty of time for more change in the WNBA. The Mystics will need to adjust quickly to the loss of Sykes and prepare for their game against the Minnesota Lynx on Friday.

References:
1. [1] https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/08/05/mystics-trade-sykes-storm/
2. [2] https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/brittney-sykes-trade-grades-storm-lean-into-defense-first-approach-mystics-continue-building-for-future/
3. [3] https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/08/05/mystics-sky-losing-streak-aaliyah-edwards/