Lynx vs. Liberty: The WNBA Reunion. Key Analysis and Expectations

WNBA Rematch! Liberty and Lynx Face Off in a Key Duel

The WNBA season brings us an exciting matchup between two of the league’s strongest teams: the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx. This Wednesday, at the Target Center in Minneapolis, the first of four scheduled encounters between these contenders will take place. The rivalry between both teams intensified after the Liberty won their first WNBA title last October, in a closely contested series against the Lynx. The fifth game was decided in overtime, with the victory for New York by 67-62. Now, nine months later, they face each other again on the court. The Lynx, currently in first place in the standings with a 22-5 record, have lost only one home game this season. Napheesa Collier, the All-Star Game MVP and the league’s top scorer with 23.5 points per game, leads the Lynx.

On the other hand, the Liberty, located in second place with 17-8, have faced challenges due to injuries. Jonquel Jones, the 2024 Finals MVP, returned on July 22 after an ankle injury, but has only played 13 of New York’s 25 games. Breanna Stewart, two-time season MVP, suffered a leg injury and her participation in Wednesday’s game is uncertain.

New Seasons, New Confrontations

The Liberty’s return to full capacity will showcase a different team than last year’s. The absence of Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, who had considerable playing time in the Finals, opens the door to new strategies. Natasha Cloud, who knows the Lynx well from her time with the Phoenix Mercury, could be key. In the 2024 Finals, coach Sandy Brondello favored larger lineups. Nyara Sabally, who performed well in the fifth game, will not be available for Wednesday’s game due to knee discomfort. The lack of joint playing time between Sabally and Jones has limited New York’s options.

Star Guard Duel

The matchup between the guards will be a determining factor. Sabrina Ionescu leads the Liberty in scoring and steals, and is second in assists. For Minnesota, Collier is the undisputed leader, but the performance of guards Williams and McBride will be crucial.

The Lynx’s defeat to the Atlanta Dream on Sunday demonstrated the importance of collective performance. Collier shone, but the support from the rest of the team was insufficient. The Lynx’s defense, which averages 75.4 points allowed per game, will be key.Who will be available for New York?The possible absence of Stewart could affect the Liberty’s aspirations. Coach Brondello has not given a timeline for her return, and her absence has been felt in the team’s defense. The depth of the Liberty’s forward line has been affected by the injuries of Sabally and Kennedy Burke. Without Burke and Stewart, Brondello has had to experiment with different lineups. For the upcoming games, the incorporation of Emma Meesseman is expected, who is in the process of obtaining her work visa. However, recent injuries in New York, especially those of Jones and Stewart, could be the biggest challenge for the Liberty to repeat the success.