The WNBA in the Final Stretch: Analysis and Predictions for the Playoffs
With only three weeks left in the WNBA regular season, the excitement intensifies as teams battle to secure their place in the playoffs, which will begin on September 14. With the Minnesota Lynx already qualified, the competition for the remaining eight spots becomes fierce. Connecticut Sun and Dallas Wings have already been eliminated, while Chicago Sky is in a delicate situation. The fight for home-court advantage and the last playoff spots promises an exciting season finale, with a minimal difference between the teams in the standings. Here’s a detailed analysis of the teams with chances of advancing, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses in this crucial final stretch.Favorites
Minnesota Lynx
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In search of the local advantage
New York Liberty
Real or not?: New York will fall to fourth place and face Minnesota in the semifinals. The Liberty have performed inconsistently since Breanna Stewart’s injury, but with a favorable schedule and Stewart’s possible return, they could secure a good position. Despite the vulnerability without Stewart and Jones, the combination of Stewart, Jones, and Sabrina Ionescu makes them special.Atlanta Dream
Real or not?: The Dream have had more success with Griner off the bench. The absence of Brittney Griner at the beginning of August allowed Atlanta to improve their game with Naz Hillmon in the starting lineup. Griner has performed well in her role as a substitute, averaging good numbers in limited minutes. This could be key to the team’s success in the playoffs.Phoenix Mercury
Real or not?: The Mercury are not true title contenders. Phoenix has had an irregular performance recently. The game against the Aces will be crucial for the classification. Over time, the team hopes that its stars, Kahleah Copper, Satou Sabally, and Alyssa Thomas, will improve their performance and achieve a more consistent game.Las Vegas Aces
Real or not?: Las Vegas will finish among the top three seeds. The Aces are on a winning streak and A’ja Wilson is playing at an exceptional level. However, their remaining schedule is not very demanding. They need help from teams that are above them in the standings, such as the Liberty and the Dream.Good playoff options
Golden State Valkyries
Real or not?: The Valkyries will make the playoffs in their inaugural season, but will be swept in the first round. Despite being an expanding team, Golden State has chances to reach the playoffs. However, the closing schedule is complicated. The experience of the teams they could face in the first round could be a decisive factor.They need to improve
Seattle Storm
Real or not?: The Storm suffer in decisive moments. Seattle has lost several games by a small margin, and their effectiveness in pressure situations is low. The lack of playmaking after Jewell Loyd’s departure is a problem. However, an improvement in their performance could secure them a place in the playoffs.Indiana Fever
Real or not?: Injuries will eventually affect Indiana and the Fever will not make the playoffs. Despite the injuries, Indiana has shown resilience. Caitlin Clark’s return is crucial, but they also need support from the new additions. The Fever are expected to fight for a playoff spot.Los Angeles Sparks
Real or not?: The Angels are the team that the best seeds don’t want to face. The Sparks have performed well in recent weeks. However, their ability to maintain this level of play and the threat from the teams above could be a challenge.Washington Mystics
Real or not?: Washington won’t make the playoffs, but will help determine the top four spots. With a young team and a new coaching staff, the Mystics were not expected to compete this season. Despite their difficult schedule, they could get wins that impact the standings.
