Lynx vs. Mercury Preview: Allen Out, Cooper vs. Collier, Lynx Aim for Playoff Success at Home

On September 23rd, the first game of the WNBA playoffs will kick off with the Lynx hosting the Mercury.

The Lynx performed exceptionally well in the regular season, finishing second with a record of 30 wins and 10 losses. Their average score per game was 82.3, placing them among the league leaders. Notably, the Lynx only allowed an average of 75.9 points per game, making them the second-best defensive team in the league. Additionally, the Lynx excel in outside shooting, averaging 9.7 three-pointers per game with a three-point shooting percentage of 38.2%. Winning 30 games during the regular season is the most in Lynx history, indicating their strong form this season.

In their last five games, the Lynx have won four and lost one, with a win rate of 80%. Their average score per game was 75.2, while allowing 70.6 points. Overall, the Lynx’s offensive performance has declined slightly recently, but defense remains their main strength.

The Lynx have four players averaging double-digit points, including Collier with 20.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, McBride with 14.9 points, Williams with 11.1 points and 4.6 rebounds, and Smith with 10 points. In their final regular-season game, the Lynx lost 51-68 to the Sparks at home, ending their winning streak. However, this game was inconsequential, and the Lynx did not field their full lineup. No player scored in double digits, and they struggled on the boards, with a miserable shooting percentage of just 28.6%. Miller and Peale each contributed 8 points, while Williams and Allen scored 6 points each. This was arguably the Lynx’s worst performance, but considering various factors, the game’s reference value is limited.

The Mercury finished seventh in the league with a 19-21 record during the regular season, entering the playoffs. Their overall performance was inferior to that of the Lynx. The Mercury averaged 81.5 points per game, which is average, and allowed 84.8 points per game, placing them towards the bottom of the league. To make a mark in the playoffs, the Mercury need to improve their defense. Their recent form has been inconsistent, with two consecutive wins over the Sky and the Sparks, but also suffering three straight losses prior. Making it into the playoffs was a significant achievement.

The Mercury also have four players averaging double-digit points, including Cooper with 21.1 points and 4.5 rebounds, Griner with 17.8 points and 6.6 rebounds, Taurasi with 14.9 points and 3.4 assists, and Craigie with 11.5 points and 6.9 assists. In their most recent game, the Mercury lost 70-89 at home to the Storm. They were outplayed in every aspect, with Cooper struggling from the field, scoring only 4 points and 5 assists on 2-of-9 shooting. Craigie also struggled, scoring only 4 points and 3 rebounds on 1-of-5 shooting. Only three players scored in double digits, with Griner leading the way with 11 points and 8 rebounds, and Cunningham adding 10 points. The Mercury’s offensive efficiency was low.

This season, the two teams faced each other four times, with the Lynx winning three and losing one, with the lone loss by just one point. In their most recent meeting, the Lynx defeated the Mercury 89-76 on the road. The Lynx had a balanced attack, with McBride scoring 19 points and 5 rebounds, Williams adding 16 points, and Collier contributing 12 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists despite a poor shooting night. Five Mercury players scored in double digits, but lacked a key player to step up in critical moments, especially off the bench.

According to the latest news, for tomorrow’s game, the Lynx’s Juhaz has a foot injury but can play, while Darko and Keller are absent. For the Mercury, Allen is out for the season, and Osborn is absent. As the better-performing team this season, the Lynx will not miss the opportunity to win at home.

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