Sky’s Flying Wings Preview: Sky Suffers Heavy Blow with Lee’s Season-Ending Injury – Can Ogwumike Lead the Wings to a Timely Turnaround?

On September 9, the WNBA regular season continues with the Sky hosting the Wings. The Wings lost their last game against the Dream and have now suffered three consecutive losses, currently ranking second-to-last in the league with a record of 9 wins and 25 losses. Meanwhile, the Sky ended their seven-game losing streak with a home victory over the Sparks and are currently eighth in the league with a record of 12 wins and 22 losses.

First, let’s take a look at the situation with the Wings. The Wings average 84.1 points per game, ranking third in the league, but they concede an average of 91.1 points, the highest in the league. However, the Wings excel in rebounding, averaging 35 rebounds per game, which is among the top in the league. They also perform well in rim protection, averaging 4.2 blocks per game. Nevertheless, they commit as many as 15 turnovers per game, the highest in the league. Additionally, their three-point shooting is subpar, averaging only 6.3 made threes per game, one of the lowest in the league.

Compared to last season, the Wings have declined significantly. Although they retained most of their starting lineup from last season during the off-season, the departure of starting guard Dangerfield was offset by the addition of fifth draft pick Sheldon and Jelena Brown. However, the current performance of the team shows a clear decline in roster strength. Last season, the Wings entered the playoffs ranked fourth with a record of 22 wins and 18 losses. In the first round of the playoffs, they swept the Dream 2-0, but were swept 3-0 by the champion Aces in the semi-finals, missing out on the finals. Whether they can enter the playoffs this season remains uncertain. The Wings have six players averaging double-digit points, including Ogwumike averaging 22.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, and Sabally averaging 20.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. Offensively, the Wings are well-supported, but their biggest issue remains defense.

In their most recent game, the Wings lost 96-107 to the Dream away, despite leading by 14 points at halftime, suffering a reversal. Their three consecutive losses were to the Fever and the Mystics, particularly failing to capitalize on a good opportunity to stop the slide at home against the Mystics. In the game against the Dream, the Wings performed quite well overall, but unfortunately, the Dream surged in the second half, and the Wings couldn’t keep up. Howard scored 24 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists, Ogwumike had 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists, and McCowan contributed 18 points and 11 rebounds. Overall, the starting lineup of the Wings performed well, but defensively, they struggled, allowing the Dream’s Howard to score 33 points and Charles 20 points and 13 rebounds. Ultimately, the Wings’ defensive weaknesses were too numerous.

The Sky averages 78.5 points per game, ranking second-to-last in the league, and concedes an average of 81.9 points, ranking sixth. Neither their offense nor defense is particularly strong. However, they are very active in rebounding, averaging 37.2 rebounds per game, ranking first in the league. But their outside shooting is poor, averaging only 4.7 made threes per game with a three-point shooting percentage of just 31.3%, both ranking near the bottom of the league. Moreover, they struggle with fouls, committing an average of 19.2 fouls per game, the most in the league. The Sky shares similar issues with the Sparks.

The Sky has four players averaging double-digit points. During the off-season, key player Cooper left for the Mercury, along with Courtney Williams. Cooper’s departure significantly impacted the Sky’s overall strength. In their last game, the Sky defeated the Sparks 92-78 at home. In this game, the Sky performed better than their opponents in terms of rebounding and offensive efficiency. Five players scored in double digits, including Lee scoring 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 assists, and Carter contributing 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists. The collective effort and firepower were key to winning the game.

The two teams have met three times this season, with the Sky holding a 2-1 advantage. In their most recent encounter, the Sky established a 42-25 lead at halftime. Compared to the Wings, who rely heavily on Ogwumike, the Sky demonstrated a more balanced attack to secure victory. Of course, this game will be a test of defense. Whether the Wings can make a difference away from home depends on how effective their defensive strategies are. It is understood that the Wings are fully healthy, while the Sky’s Williams is out due to injury, and rookie Lee announced her season-ending injury just a few hours ago. Who will emerge victorious? Let’s wait and see.

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