Lynx vs. Mystics Preview: Collier Leads the Team in Home Game, Caution Needed for Post-Olympic Effects

On August 16 at 8 AM, the WNBA regular season will resume with the Minnesota Lynx hosting the Washington Mystics. The WNBA had previously been on hold to make way for the Olympics and is now reigniting after a month-long pause. The Lynx have performed well this season with a record of 17 wins and 8 losses, ranking them first in the West, ahead of strong teams like the Aces and Storm. The Lynx’s home court performance is impressive, with an 11-3 record, second only to the Liberty’s win rate. The Lynx rely heavily on their robust defense, allowing just 75 points per game, ranking second in the league, while scoring 81.2 points per game, placing them seventh in the league. Collier is the core of the Lynx, averaging 20 points, 10.2 rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game, showcasing comprehensive skills as one of the top forwards in the league. McBride is the second leading scorer, averaging 16.4 points and 3.4 assists per game, with a three-point shooting percentage of 43%. Alanna Smith averages 11.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, serving as a defensive anchor inside. In addition to these three, Courtney Williams, Carlton, Zahui B., Miller, and others also possess considerable strength, giving the Lynx a deep roster. Notably, three players from the Lynx participated in the recently concluded Olympics and played significant roles. Collier was a key rotation player for the U.S. women’s basketball team, participating in the final and returning to the team less than five days ago. Alanna Smith was the starting center for Australia, leading her team to a bronze medal. Carlton was a core player for Canada, though they were eliminated in the group stage. Both Collier and Alanna Smith have just returned to the team, so their condition remains uncertain. The Mystics’ performance this season has been poor, with a record of 6 wins and 19 losses, ranking second-to-last in the league, tied with the bottom-ranked Wings. The Mystics’ record is partly due to injuries, with core player Delle Donne out for the season, and several other key players including Austin, S. Johnson, and Doolittle all struggling with injuries. Atkins is the Mystics’ leading scorer, averaging 15.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Austin, S. Johnson, and Doolittle also average double-digit scores, but Austin and S. Johnson have low attendance rates. Several Mystics players also participated in the Olympics, Edwards representing Canada, Meesseman Belgium, and Melbourne Australia, with the latter two experiencing significant fatigue. Currently, Austin and Richards are still listed as injured and will not be able to play in this game. The two teams have met twice this season, including a preseason game, both of which the Lynx won, holding the Mystics to just 67 points in their regular-season matchup. In terms of strength, the home team Lynx have a clear advantage, although the impact of the Olympics cannot be ignored.

>>For more predictions on this game, click >>>