On July 13, the WNBA regular season continues with the Storm hosting the Lynx.
The Storm’s last game saw them suffer a comeback loss against the Aces, missing out on consecutive wins, and they are currently in fifth place in the league with a 14-8 record. Generally speaking, the Storm’s recent form has been decent, with three wins and two losses in their last five games, following an impressive four-game winning streak. The Storm averages 83.9 points per game, ranking third in the league, and concedes an average of 78.4 points, making them the fourth-least conceding team in the league. Overall, the Storm has a relatively balanced offense and defense. Particularly on the defensive end, the Storm applies considerable pressure on opponents, averaging 9.8 steals per game, while also performing well in rebounding with an average of 35.8 rebounds per game, ranking third in the league. However, their perimeter offense is poor, averaging only 5.9 three-pointers made per game with a three-point shooting percentage of just 30.7%, placing them near the bottom of the league.
This season, the Storm’s performance has seen a significant improvement compared to last season. Last year, their record was abysmal, finishing second-to-last in the regular season with an 11-29 record and failing to qualify for the playoffs. During the offseason, the Storm acquired two high-profile reinforcements, the first being All-Star Ogwumike, and the second, former Mercury standout Diggins-Smith. After the departure of Stewart last season led to a disastrous season, the Storm’s offseason moves indicated that they were looking to make a statement in the new season. The two newcomers, along with No. 1 draft pick guard Lloyd, have given the Storm a chance to clear away the gloom from before. Four players on the Storm are averaging double-digit points, with Lloyd contributing 20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, Ogwumike with 17.1 points and 7.4 rebounds, Magbegor with 13.2 points and 9 rebounds, and Diggins with 14 points and 6.4 assists per game.
In their last game, the Storm lost 79-84 at home to the Aces. Despite holding an advantage in rebounds, they failed to control their turnovers, leading by six points at halftime but suffering a comeback defeat in the second half. Three players scored in double figures, with Lloyd scoring 28 points, Diggins contributing 16 points, 8 assists, and 4 steals, and Magbegor recording a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. However, the Aces’ Jackie Young and Wilson combined for 51 points and 21 rebounds, demonstrating that the Storm overall fell short against the Aces.
Meanwhile, the Lynx secured back-to-back wins after defeating the Sparks in their last game, dispelling the shadow of their previous two-game losing streak. They currently hold a 16-6 record and sit third in the league. The Lynx boasts strong scoring ability, averaging 84.7 points per game, ranking third in the league. They can limit their conceded points to an average of 74.5, making them the second-least conceding team in the league. Maintaining balance on both ends of the court is the Lynx’s greatest asset. Notably, the Lynx has a hot outside shooting touch, averaging 9.9 three-pointers made per game, ranking second in the league, with a three-point shooting percentage of 39.1%, which leads the league.
Compared to last season, the Lynx has undergone a complete transformation, largely due to their adjustments during the offseason. From drafting the eighth overall pick scorer Pilley in the draft to signing veteran Courtney Williams and starting power forward Smith from the Sky, although they lost Banham and Tiffany Mitchell, the overall effect of the Lynx’s roster adjustments has proven effective. To date, four players on the Lynx are averaging double-digit points, with Collier contributing 20 points, 10 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, McBride averaging 15.4 points and 3 assists, Smith with 11.3 points and 5.2 rebounds, and Williams contributing 10 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game.
In the last two games, the team’s absolute core player Collier was absent, which had a considerable impact on the Lynx, but fortunately, they managed to win both crucial matches. Collier is nearing her return, allowing the Lynx to fully focus on their upcoming games. In their last game, the Lynx defeated the Sparks 82-67 on the road, dominating the Sparks comprehensively. Four players scored in double figures, with Carlton scoring 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists, Yauhazee adding 15 points and 6 rebounds, and McBride and Zandalasini each contributing 11 points. While their offense was commendable, it was the Lynx’s defense that was key to their victory.
The two teams have already met three times this season, with the Lynx maintaining a clean sweep in both home and away games. In the last game, Collier’s injury report was updated to unlikely to play, but after a few days of rest, she should be able to return to the court. It remains to be seen whether the Storm can reverse their losing streak against the Lynx at home, making this a match to watch.
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