The Washington Mystics come into Target Center with a 2-3 record in their last five games. The Minnesota Lynx, who have taken something of a dip lately, have that same 2-3 record. While still holding third place by one game over Seattle and one and a half games over Las Vegas (thanks to losses by each of those teams on Friday) the Lynx need to get back to the plus side in order to maintain a top-five standing.
The Mystics have shown improvement of late, with a back-to-back pair of wins over Dallas and a two-point win over Los Angeles (who just beat Las Vegas in an overtime duel). However, the Mystics have been without key players Shakira Austin and Brittney Sykes from day one. Coming into Minnesota they will also be without Karlie Samuelson, and Stefanie Dolson is listed as questionable. Dolson is still a three-point threat and if not playing will certainly be missed.
Minnesota and Washington Ahead of Their Matchup
Since their first win, the Mystics have gone 5-4. In that same time period, Minnesota has gone 6-3. No one has really blown the Lynx out of the water, but their losses have been problematic. Whether or not it is a temporary dip remains to be seen. The Lynx will most likely be without Napheesa Collier, who left Thursday’s game in the third quarter with a foot injury. Even though she is listed as questionable, I suspect she will not play.
With the All-Star game and the Olympics just around the corner, Coach Reeve will most likely keep her out. Reserve guard Olivia Époupa will also be out, having suffered a thigh injury in the game against Connecticut. Époupa has quickly become a fan favorite and brings a huge jolt of energy when on the floor. A true point guard, her presence will be missed.
final. pic.twitter.com/XlXziTC3bz
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) July 5, 2024
At this point in the season, we know what each of these teams can do. It is simply a question of doing it better, not just enough to get over the finish line first but to show dominance. The Lynx have done that, the Mystics have not, at least not consistently. If Washington gets players back after the Olympic break, we may see a significant difference, but as I have said, every team is vulnerable and can win.
We saw that yesterday with wins by Chicago over Seattle and Los Angeles over Las Vegas. Even though those wins help the Lynx in the standings, they need to turn things around and start to help themselves. The Mystics, who began the season waiting for Elena Delle Donne to make a decision, and losing Natasha Cloud to Phoenix in free agency, are definitely in a rebuilding process.
The Issue in the Nation’s Capital and Final Thoughts
Rookie Aaliyah Edwards is earning her stripes, and newcomers Julie Vanloo and Jade Melbourne have provided solid minutes. So what is the real problem in Washington? Chemistry? Offense? Defense? The coach? All good questions, but so far, not many answers. As for Minnesota, they need to regroup after two consecutive losses and go back to their solid defense and three-point shooting prowess.
They also need to establish themselves better in the paint on both offense and defense. The chemistry is still there, and there is plenty. It is fair to say that both New York and Connecticut are solid contenders, and if Minnesota gets back on track, they will be as well. The Mystics have nowhere to go but up. Will they? Stop by Target Center tonight to find out.
And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.
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