Sunday afternoon, the New York Liberty bounced back, even though the Minnesota Lynx looked like they were going to repeat what happened in Game 1. But the shots didn’t fall, and the Liberty went on a 12-point run. Wednesday night at Target Center begins a best-of-3 series.
Minnesota has to figure out how to stop playing catch-up. The Liberty, even though they won the game, allowed Minnesota to erase another substantial lead and get back within 2. Minnesota’s offense needs more production from their primary shooters. It’s that simple. They know who they are playing, and nothing major is going to change. Over the next couple of days, the Lynx have to hone in on what they can do, and then figure out how to stop New York from taking another big opening lead.
Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu had much better games than the first meeting, but Betnijah Laney-Hamilton made the difference for New York. After only scoring five points in Game 1, Laney-Hamilton stormed back with 20 points in the second game.
Minnesota’s Offense…Or Lack Thereof Against New York
Both Kayla McBride and Bridget Carleton were held to 8 points each. For Minnesota to make a significant improvement, both are going to need to get back to doing what they do best – score from three. Neither bench made an impact, and starter Leonie Fiebich was a non-factor for New York.
The Lynx have barely held the lead in either game. This, along with more potent scoring, will make the difference if Minnesota wants to come away with a fifth title. Even though the Liberty has given up big leads in both games, that isn’t something the Lynx should count on. An offensive statement from the first tip is imperative.
back home on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/kw8PqdtDj2
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) October 13, 2024
There is nothing mysterious to discover for either team between now and Wednesday. Playing at home might give the Lynx a little more juice as Target Center can be a difficult place to play. However, with the Liberty searching for their first title, and given the caliber of their game, that may not be much of a factor.
It is all going to come down to immediate efficiency from Minnesota if they want to have a real shot. Starters for both teams have to play at the highest level possible, and if both Cheryl Reeve and Sandy Brondello need to lean on their benches, they are all going to have to step up with meaningful minutes.
The WNBA Finals Shifts To The Target Center
With Minnesota coming home after splitting the first two games, there is still time to get where they want to be, but not much. The Liberty are going to have to put the road situation aside and continue to play their game. We’ve seen each team’s highs and lows: the cold shooting and the less-than-impactful defense. With the next two games in Minnesota, each team has the chance to win it all or bring it back to New York for a deciding Game 5. Let’s see who throws the first punch.
And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.
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