WNBA: Key Predictions in the Regular Season Finale

Hot WNBA Predictions: In-Depth Season Analysis

As the WNBA regular season nears its conclusion, with only four weeks remaining, the landscape becomes clearer, although still reserved. While it’s predictable that the Minnesota Lynx will secure the top spot for the playoffs and that Napheesa Collier will remain the favorite for MVP, there are many factors at play that could change the course of the season. Initial expectations, such as the success of the Golden State Valkyries in the 2025 playoffs, seem less risky now. Injuries and player movements have created unexpected, but pragmatic, lineups. The main goal is to reach the postseason with the team as healthy and cohesive as possible, although in some cases, simply qualifying would already be an achievement. Here are eight key analyses of the WNBA season.

Atlanta will surpass New York for second placeFor much of the season, the reigning champion New York Liberty appeared to be the dominant team. However, the Atlanta Dream’s victory over the Seattle Storm, combined with the Liberty’s loss to the Las Vegas Aces, put Atlanta with a slight lead in the standings. Although the Liberty have a 2-1 advantage over the Dream in their regular season series, they will face each other again in Atlanta in ten days. According to the analyses, the Dream have the most accessible schedule, while the Liberty face significant challenges. Additionally, the Liberty await the return of Breanna Stewart, while the Dream have recovered Brittney Griner and Rhyne Howard. With six consecutive wins and a solid performance in the last ten games, Atlanta seems capable of securing the second place.Caitlin Clark will return this season, but Angel Reese will notThe two best rookies from last season, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, are currently out of action due to injuries. Although both wish to return and finish the season, Reese’s situation, whose last game was on July 29, is less favorable. With the Sky having no chance of making the playoffs, it is likely that she will focus on her recovery for next season. In contrast, Clark’s possible return could give the Indiana Fever more opportunities in the playoffs, although expectations for the team have decreased.

The Storm will reach the playoffs

A six-game losing streak has relegated Seattle to the eighth playoff position. Despite this, projections indicate a high probability of the Storm qualifying. The team’s point differential is an indicator of their talent, which, added to a complicated schedule for Golden State, increases their chances of reaching the postseason.The Sparks deserved multiple All-StarsKelsey Plum was the only Sparks representative in the All-Star game, despite Dearica Hamby’s outstanding performance. The lack of All-Stars was attributed to the team’s injuries, which affected their performance at the beginning of the season. However, since they recovered their key players, the Sparks have shown a remarkable improvement, demonstrating that the team’s performance does not always reflect individual talent.The Wings could influence the last playoff spotsAlthough it is unlikely that the Wings will qualify for the playoffs, they could affect the fight for the last spots. With several games against teams in direct competition, Dallas has the opportunity to influence the postseason landscape. The return of key players could be crucial to their performance.No coach will be fired after this seasonAfter a season with several coaching changes, the current situation suggests stability. Although several teams are outside the playoff positions, dismissals are unlikely. The continuity of the coaching staff in Dallas, despite some criticism, is an example of this trend.

The first round of playoffs should be a best-of-five series

Although the WNBA Finals will be a best-of-seven series, the first round of the playoffs is still a best-of-three. Expanding this phase to a best-of-five series would increase excitement and allow for more strategic adjustments. While this would involve more games, the playoff experience would be more complete.Cathy Engelbert is doing a good job as the WNBA commissionerDespite criticism, the WNBA is at its best from a business perspective. The impact of Caitlin Clark, the high level of play, the commitment of team owners, and increased media coverage are key factors. Engelbert has led the league during a period of significant growth, implementing important changes and expanding the league.