I agree with both points. If you showed that shot to 100 people 15 years ago, none of them would guess it's Chicago.
However NEMA does without question pay homage to Sears (bundled tube) and Vinoly himself has made it clear that was the intention.
The relationship between the two is incredible coming in from the south. Together they absolutely dominate and yet beautifully frame the rest of the skyline. Like a gateway into the city formed by two buildings that couldn't be more "Chicago"
Anybody got a recent shot from Comiskey Park area?