Chicago Sky vs Portland Fire Picks and Prediction for Saturday, May 9, 2026
Use Code WWWC The Chicago Sky visit the Portland Fire at Moda Center on Saturday at 9:00 PM ET on NBA TV. Chicago is coming off an 87-78 loss to Atlanta in its most recent preseason game, while Portland fell 85-75 to Los Angeles in its latest preseason outing. Portland enters its first regular-season game as a new WNBA franchise. Be a winner using our free WNBA picks.
Chicago Sky Trying to Improve Scoring Output After 2025 Struggles
The Sky lost to Atlanta 87-78 in preseason play and showed many of the same offensive issues as last season. Chicago finished 10-34 in 2025, tied for last in the overall WNBA standings, and missed the playoffs for the second straight year. The team often fell behind early and struggled to put together consistent scoring runs, leading to long losing streaks late in the year.
Chicago averaged 75.8 points per game last season, the lowest mark in the league, while also ranking near the bottom in field goal percentage. Early preseason numbers show slight improvement with 91.0 points per game, but that came against mixed competition. Sydney Taylor has provided scoring with 14.5 points per game, while Kamilla Cardoso contributes 4.0 rebounds per game and gives the team a presence inside. The additions of Skylar Diggins and Natasha Cloud should help create a more structured offense, as both guards have a track record of distributing the ball and setting up teammates.
Chicago also averaged 18.0 assists per game in preseason action, indicating a greater focus on ball movement compared to last year. However, turnovers remain a concern, and the team must convert more efficiently in half-court sets. With multiple new players added during the offseason, establishing consistent scoring options will be a key factor in early games.
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Defensively, Chicago allowed 85.8 points per game last season and struggled to contain opposing backcourts. The roster changes are expected to improve perimeter defense, but this group has had limited time together. Injury concerns remain entering this game, particularly in the backcourt.
Injuries: Azura Stevens, GTD, Courtney Vandersloot, Out, Skylar Diggins, GTD, Elizabeth Williams, GTD, DiJonai Carrington, Out
Portland Fire Opening Season with New Roster and Unclear Offensive Hierarchy
The Fire lost 85-75 to Los Angeles in preseason play and showed inconsistent scoring across four quarters. Portland enters the league with a roster built through the expansion and WNBA draft, as well as free agent signings. Early games are likely to reflect adjustments as players settle into defined roles.
Portland averaged 78.0 points per game in the preseason while shooting 43% from the field. Carla Leite leads the team with 11.5 points per game and 4.0 assists, while Serah Williams contributes 5.5 rebounds per game. The roster does not yet have a clear primary scoring option, which could impact late-game situations and overall offensive consistency.
The Fire also averaged 15.0 assists per game, which is lower than Chicago’s preseason mark, and that suggests fewer structured possessions. At the same time, Portland recorded 9.5 steals per game, indicating a solid defense and pressure on opposing ball handlers. That approach can create transition scoring chances but also risks giving up open looks if rotations are missed.
Portland allowed 85 points in its most recent preseason game and will need to improve defensively to stay competitive. The combination of a new system and new personnel means there could be uneven stretches on both ends of the floor, especially early in the season.
Injuries: Karlie Samuelson, Out, Nika Muhl, Out For Season
Chicago Sky vs Portland Fire Spread Pick
The Chicago Sky will win and cover due to more experienced players in key positions and a better backcourt. Chicago’s additions at guard should help reduce turnovers and improve shot quality, especially compared to a Portland team still defining roles. The Fire may generate scoring in stretches, but consistency is likely to be an issue. With more reliable ball-handling and scoring options, Chicago is better positioned to control the pace of the game and cover the spread.
Chicago Sky vs Portland Fire Over/Under Pick
This matchup will cash under based on both teams’ scoring or lack thereof. Chicago averaged under 76 points per game last season, and while preseason scoring improved, that may not fully carry over. Portland’s offense is still developing, and inconsistent shot selection could limit scoring runs. Even with a higher number of possessions, missed opportunities and turnovers will keep the total lower than expected.
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