The WNBA Finals have been full of surprises and excitement, but the news that Chelsea Gray and Kiah Stokes have been ruled out of Game 4 due to foot injuries is a major setback for the Los Angeles Sparks. Gray and Stokes have been key contributors for the Sparks this season, and their absence will be felt in a big way.
Gray has been a reliable presence in the Sparks’ backcourt, averaging 11.5 points and 4.2 assists per game. She has also been a leader on the defensive end, averaging 1.7 steals per game. Stokes has been a force in the paint, averaging 8.1 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Her presence in the post has been invaluable for the Sparks, as she has been able to protect the rim and grab rebounds at a high rate.
The Sparks will have to find a way to make up for the loss of Gray and Stokes in Game 4. Without them, the Sparks will have to rely more heavily on their other players to step up and fill the void. Candace Parker, Nneka Ogwumike, and Odyssey Sims will need to take on a bigger role if the Sparks are to win Game 4.
It is unfortunate that Gray and Stokes have been ruled out of Game 4 due to their foot injuries. They have been integral parts of the Sparks’ success this season, and their absence will be felt in a big way. The Sparks will need to find a way to make up for their absence if they are to win Game 4 and take home the WNBA championship.
