The last time the Phoenix Mercury and the Minnesota Lynx met was in Phoenix, where the Mercury eked out a one-point win. Kahleah Copper hit a buzzer-beating three to take the game. Since then, the Mercury have gone 4-1 and the Lynx 5-0. However, the Lynx, over the last three games, have lost some of their edge both offensively and defensively.
They are going to need all pistons firing to beat the Mercury, who have shown a lot more cohesion during their five-game stretch. All games were decided by single digits, including the loss to Las Vegas.
So the question is, can Minnesota make it six in a row, or will Phoenix put an end to the Lynx winning streak? The Lynx are frustrated with their recent unsteady offense, even though they have been able to rally in the fourth quarter to take the last two wins. We’ve seen in the past what Minnesota can do. Their first game with Phoenix in Minneapolis at Target Center was a resounding 24-point win. However, the Lynx bench provided the fuel to win that game.
On a team where everyone is capable of stepping up, that was one of those games. Plus, the Mercury were without Brittney Griner and Rebecca Allen, who, since returning to the lineup, have provided a boost both from a scoring point of view and a joyous point of view, particularly seeing Griner on the floor again.
The Mercury and Lynx Looking to Stay on Course
When the Lynx lost at Phoenix, it was a more balanced scoring effort, although Copper went off for 34 points including the winning three. At this writing, only Diamond Miller remains sidelined for the Lynx. Phoenix will come in with a full roster.
What I enjoy most about watching these teams is that there is a certain unpredictability between them. Will Diana Taurasi have a game that reminds all of why many consider her the GOAT? Will Kayla McBride go on a three-point tear and set a new record? Will Griner be impossible to guard? Will Napheesa Collier continue to show why she should be in the MVP conversation? Will Copper dominate? Will Alissa Pili have another 20-point game like she had when the Lynx beat the Mercury? Will the benches pull their weight or stay in the shadows?
Friday work. 😤 pic.twitter.com/uGeJ5jIVlD
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) June 21, 2024
We know what both these teams can do when all is right with their respective worlds. The Lynx must regain their sharpness, and the Mercury will have to defend against a much-improved offense. No team wants to lose in front of their home crowd, but you have to bring the goods. We know what these teams can do. Now let’s see them do it.
And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.
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