Wings vs. Mystics Preview: Atkins vs. Ogunbowale – Can the Mystics Avoid a Losing Streak at Home?

On September 4th, the WNBA regular season continues with the Wings hosting the Mystics. Both teams are in a similar situation this season, both with a record of 9 wins and 23 losses, placing them second to last and third from the bottom in the league, making it very difficult for them to compete for a playoff spot this season.

First, let’s look at the Mystics’ situation. They finally won three consecutive games against the Sparks, Storm, and Sky, ending their five-game losing streak, but their winning streak was halted after losing to the Sun in their last game. However, compared to the ten-game losing streak at the start of the season, the Mystics have managed to recover somewhat. The Mystics’ offensive firepower is also weak, averaging only 78.9 points per game, ranking fourth from the bottom in the league. Additionally, the Mystics do not control turnovers well, averaging 15.4 turnovers per game, the most in the league. Their average rebounds are also only 31.9, which still ranks last in the league. It can be said that the Mystics’ performance in all aspects has been very poor.

Last season, the Mystics finished seventh in the regular season with a record of 19 wins and 21 losses, entering the playoffs, where they were swept 0-2 by the Liberty in the first round, failing to reach the semifinals. During the offseason, there was significant personnel turnover for the Mystics, with starting point guard Cloud joining the Mercury, Delle Donne absent, Hawkins retiring, and Chinese national team member Li Meng returning to China to prepare for the Olympics. Of course, the Mystics did make some additions, bringing in Samuelson from the Sparks, Dolson from the Liberty, and Hiedeman from the Sun. However, based on the current state and performance of the team, the adjustments made by the Mystics during the offseason have been unsuccessful.

The Mystics have several players averaging double-digit points per game, with Carter averaging 25 points, Lees 16 points, and Atkins 15.3 points. In their last game, the Mystics lost 85-96 at home to the stronger Sun. The team did not perform well in rebounding and controlling turnovers, with only three players scoring in double digits, including Atkins with 15 points and 2 rebounds, Dolson with 14 points and 7 rebounds, and Engstler with 12 points and 3 rebounds. Van Vluyn, who started, missed all five of her shots, scoring zero points. On the other hand, five Sun players scored in double digits, with Mabrey scoring 21 points. The comprehensive offensive performance of the Sun left the Mystics struggling.

The Wings, like the Mystics, had their three-game winning streak ended after losing their last game. After a strong run, the Wings may once again face difficulties. Fortunately, this time their opponents are not particularly strong, giving the Wings a chance to stop their decline. The Wings average 83.7 points per game, ranking third in the league, but allow an average of 90.7 points, the most in the league. However, the Wings excel in rebounding, averaging 34.7 rebounds per game, ranking among the top in the league, including 4.3 blocks per game, which is excellent. The only downside is that they average 14.9 turnovers per game, ranking second in the league. Additionally, the Wings’ three-point shooting is subpar, averaging only 6.3 three-pointers made per game, ranking near the bottom of the league.

Compared to last season, the Wings have declined significantly in performance. Although they retained their core lineup from last season during the offseason, starting guard Dangerfield left the team, but they added the fifth overall draft pick, Sheldon, and Jelín Browne. However, based on the team’s current performance, the strength of the Wings’ roster has clearly declined. Last season, the Wings entered the playoffs with a regular-season record of 22 wins and 18 losses, ranking fourth. They swept the Dream 2-0 in the first round of the playoffs, but were swept 3-0 by the champion Aces in the semifinals, missing out on the finals. Whether they can enter the playoffs this season remains uncertain.

The Wings have six players averaging double-digit points per game, with Ogunbowale averaging 22.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, Sabally averaging 20.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists, plus Sims, Howard, Siegrist, and McCowan, ensuring the Wings have a reliable scoring force. Their biggest problem currently lies in defense.

In their last game, the Wings lost 93-100 at home to the Fever, collapsing in the final quarter and being overwhelmed by the Fever. Despite good control over turnovers and fouls, the issue ultimately came down to defense, allowing the opponent to shoot over 50% from the field and beyond the arc. Even though Ogunbowale scored 34 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists, and Sabally contributed 25 points and 4 rebounds, while Howard added 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 9 assists, the Fever won with higher offensive efficiency.

In the two meetings earlier this season, the Mystics won both games, having a certain advantage. It is understood that the Mystics’ Kahlia and Austin will miss the game, and the Wings’ Sures will also be absent. However, the main players of both teams will be present. Who can stop their decline in time? Let’s wait and see.

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