Sun vs Lynx Preview: Collier Aims to Lead Lynx to Finals, Sun Need Marbury to Bounce Back

On October 7th, the WNBA playoff semi-final will see the Connecticut Sun face off against the Minnesota Lynx in Game 4 at their home court.

In the previous three games, the Sun won the first away game but lost the subsequent two matches. The Sun’s victory in the first game was largely due to Marbury’s six three-pointers. However, in the following two losses, Marbury’s performance was subpar, and the Sun revealed a gap in strength against their opponents. In the second game, despite Collier making only 3 of her 14 shots, the Lynx relied on their defense to secure the win. In the pivotal third game, Collier delivered an outstanding performance with 26 points and 11 rebounds, leading the Lynx to another victory on the road and securing a match point.

The Lynx finished the regular season with a record of 30 wins and 10 losses, ranking second in the league. The Sun had 28 wins and 12 losses, placing them third in the league. Both teams were well-balanced in both offense and defense during the regular season, averaging over 80 points per game while conceding 75.6 and 73.6 points respectively. In the first round of the playoffs, both teams swept their opponents 2-0, advancing to the semi-finals easily. In the playoffs, the Lynx’s scoring average has risen to 88 points per game, while the Sun are averaging 80.8 points. From the three previous encounters, it is evident that the Lynx have a slight edge in terms of overall strength.

From a player perspective, the Lynx boast Collier, a superweapon in the playoffs. Currently, Collier is averaging 26.8 points per game in the playoffs, leading the league. Additionally, Smith averages 2.4 blocks per game, ranking second in the league. Besides Collier, McBride, Carlton, Williams, and Smith all score in double digits, providing ample support for Collier.

On the Sun’s side, although four players average double-digit points, Marbury, who averages 18.6 points, has been inconsistent. Bonner averages 16 points and 7.8 rebounds, Thomas contributes 15.8 points, 9.8 assists, and 8.8 rebounds, and Karin averages 12.8 points. However, the other Sun players have performed rather ordinarily. Particularly in the third game, the Sun’s bench players combined for just 4 points, a dismal showing.

This game between the Sun and the Lynx could decide one of the spots in this season’s WNBA Finals. Although the Lynx are playing away from home, they hold a match point and possess a certain advantage in strength. If Collier continues to perform as impressively as she did in the third game, the Lynx have a good chance of winning. The Sun need Marbury to improve her shooting and their bench players to provide more support. Otherwise, the Sun may be eliminated at home.

>>”>More predictions for this game can be found here>>>