Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WNBA match.
Despite being one of the WNBA’s highest-scoring teams, the Los Angeles Sparks have serious issues on defence, which could prove decisive in their meeting with the Atlanta Dream.
Atlanta Dream
The Dream have won three in a row, including an 86:75 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks. In that game they won the rebounding battle (45, including 12 offensive) and were strong defensively: the opponents were held to 40.6% from the field and committed 12 turnovers. The season statistics are strong: 83.7 points per game, 43.9% FG%, and close to 10 three-pointers made per game. At the same time, the Dream are solid on defence, conceding just 77 points per game (third-best in the league). In six of their last nine, they have failed to reach 80 points, which underlines their defensive focus.
Los Angeles Sparks
The Los Angeles Sparks remain in the chase for the top eight, but their position is precarious. They are 5-6 across their last 11, and in key games their offence has dipped: in three of their last four they have scored 81 points or fewer. Over the season, the Sparks are top two in offence (85.8 points per game) with a 47.4% FG% and 34.6% from three. However, the defence is struggling: 87.9 points allowed per game (second-worst), with opponents shooting 45.4% from the field. In their recent meeting with the Atlanta Dream, 35 rebounds and 11 turnovers forced were not enough, as the defence struggled to contain the three-point threat.
Atlanta Dream vs Los Angeles Sparks Prediction
On paper both teams score heavily, but head-to-head results and recent form suggest otherwise. The average combined total between these teams is 165.5, and Total Under landed in three of the last four. The Atlanta Dream are built on robust defence and can disrupt opponents’ rhythm, while the Los Angeles Sparks have clearly dipped offensively. A lower-scoring game looks the most likely outcome.
