WNBA Analysis: Two Teams Dominate, Others Seek Their Rhythm
Almost a month into the WNBA season, the landscape is taking shape. Two teams have managed to pull away and are looking to maintain their momentum, while another is struggling to find its rhythm. The rest of the teams are in a stage of readjustment and adaptation.
While the
Minnesota Lynx and the
New York Liberty remain at the top, with the
Dallas Wings at the bottom of the table, the other ten teams are experiencing changes in the WNBA standings. Injuries, as always, play a crucial role.
One of the most significant losses is that of the veteran point guard of the Chicago Sky, Courtney Vandersloot, who suffered an ACL tear that will keep her out for the season. This injury occurred during the game against the Indiana Fever, tarnishing the historic first game of the Sky at the United Center, in front of the largest crowd in the franchise’s history. Chicago’s offense was already showing difficulties, and without Vandersloot, the situation worsened.
In contrast, Indiana has shown good performance in two consecutive games without the base Caitlin Clark (quadriceps), recovering from two previous defeats. The Fever have managed to get close to .500 and are awaiting Clark’s quick return.
We are approaching the final stretch of the Commissioner’s Cup games, with Lynx and Liberty heading towards their second consecutive matchup in the tournament final, while other teams are looking to consolidate their game.
Detailed Ranking and Analysis of the Teams
Napheesa Collier was chosen MVP in the first edition of the season awards. However, the Lynx have the support of the rest of the team. In victories against Phoenix and Dallas, Natisha Hiedeman stood out from the bench, scoring 27 points with a 61.1% effectiveness.
The Liberty had a quiet week, winning their only game against Washington, with Breanna Stewart’s first double-double of the season (26 points, 11 rebounds). Kennedy Burke, a candidate for Sixth Player of the Year, scored 12 points with 80% effectiveness against the Mystics.
The Storm have had ups and downs in the rankings. Gabby Williams led with 18 points against the Wings, while Skylar Diggins scored 26 points and 7 assists against the Mercury.
Phoenix lost against Minnesota and Seattle, but defeated Golden State. Lexi Held led the Mercury in scoring in two consecutive games.
The week was disappointing for Atlanta, who faced Connecticut at a bad time. Jordin Canada, who recovered from a knee injury, returned to the game against Connecticut.
The Fever had Aari McDonald due to the absences of Clark and Sophie Cunningham. Kelsey Mitchell led Indiana in scoring in both games.
The current champions, the Aces, suffered a defeat against Golden State. Coach Becky Hammon criticized the team for lack of effort.
- Golden State Valkyries (4-5)
The Valkyries have won two consecutive games for the second time this season. Janelle Salaun had 21 points and eight rebounds against Los Angeles.
After losing against Indiana and New York, Washington got its highest score of the season against Connecticut. Brittney Sykes scored 28 points.
The Sparks beat Dallas, but lost in overtime against Golden State. Los Angeles is in 11th place in rebounds.
The Sun’s pattern in the last five games has been to allow more than 100 points in a loss and then win. Connecticut lost against Washington.
It’s not a good time for the Sky, who lost their only game of the week against the Fever. Vandersloot is out for the rest of the season.
The absence of Paige Bueckers has affected the Wings in their recent games. Dallas is also without Tyasha Harris and Teaira McCowan, and they will soon lose Luisa Geiselsöder.
