Lynx vs. Sparks Preview: Lynx Aim for Third Straight Win, Can Li Yueru Build on Recent Performance?

On the morning of June 15th at 7:30 AM, the WNBA regular season continues as the Minnesota Lynx host the Los Angeles Sparks. On paper and in terms of record, the Lynx hold a clear advantage, and with home-court advantage, they are targeting their third consecutive victory. A key storyline to watch is whether Chinese player Li Yueru can maintain her impressive form from the previous game.

The Lynx have been outstanding this season, boasting a 9-3 record that tops the Western Conference. They’ve swept the Storm, defeated teams like the Liberty and Aces, and reached the Commissioner’s Cup Final. The team excels both offensively and defensively, averaging 86.7 points per game (second in the league) while conceding only 76 points (third in the league), with no evident weaknesses. The Lynx lead the league in field goal percentage, three-point shooting percentage, and three-pointers made per game, demonstrating their prowess from beyond the arc and making them a challenging opponent to defend against.

The Lynx’s star player is Napheesa Collier, averaging 20.8 points, 10.9 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2 steals, and 1.5 blocks. She leads the team in all three categories and ranks top-five in the league in each. Teammate Kayla McBride averages 17.8 points, with an impressive 51.7% three-point shooting rate this season. Alanna Smith and Courtney Williams also contribute double-digit scoring, along with Odyssey Sims, Zandalasiini, Hiedeman, and others, creating a deep roster. Miller is currently unavailable due to non-playing reasons.

In contrast, the Sparks are in a rebuilding phase, having lost their two core players, Ogwumike and Cambage, from last season. With several new additions, their record stands at 4-8, placing them ninth. Following a loss to the Storm, the Sparks average 78 points per game, ranking third from bottom in the league, while conceding 84 points per game, eighth in the league.

Erica Hamby leads the Sparks in scoring with 20 points, 11.4 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.6 steals, all team-highs, but she is the only player averaging double-digit points. Nia Coffey averages 9.8 points, while rookie Jordin Canada averages 9.1 points. Lexie Brown, Brink, and McDonald also contribute with scores above seven points per game.

Li Yueru had a breakout performance in her last outing, recording a career-high 18 points and 7 rebounds in the WNBA. Though currently not in the starting lineup, her recent surge might earn her more playing time. Her continued success will be a focal point in this contest. In their lone meeting this season, the Lynx won convincingly, 86-62, with Collier leading the way with 25 points. Over the past ten encounters, the Lynx have won nine, and they’ve triumphed in the last six straight, holding a commanding advantage. With a home record of 5-1 (only loss to the Aces) and the Sparks’ road record at 1-4, the Lynx are poised to secure another win.

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