Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WNBA match.
The Los Angeles Sparks are still fighting for a playoff spot, but inconsistency keeps holding them back. The Dallas Wings, bottom of the conference, are playing with no pressure and looking to spoil things late in the season.
Los Angeles Sparks
The Sparks remain within touching distance of the playoffs, but recent results highlight their volatility: a narrow win over the Dallas Wings (97:96) was followed by a defeat to the Washington Mystics (86:95). Offensively, they lead the league in scoring (89.2 points per game), rank second in field goal percentage (46.2%) and third in three-point shooting (35.5%). Yet their defence collapses too often, conceding an average of 91.5 points — the worst mark in the WNBA. At home they have struggled, with a negative record (6-10).
Dallas Wings
The Wings are enduring a tough campaign but look far more competitive in recent weeks. The key factor is rookie point guard Paige Bueckers, averaging 18.8 points, 4.1 rebounds and 5.4 assists. She nearly carried the team to a win in Los Angeles last week, missing only in the closing seconds. With leading scorer Arike Ogunbowale (15.5 ppg) sidelined through injury, Bueckers shoulders the offensive load. Defence remains a major weakness: opponents score 89.9 points on average, the second-worst record behind the Sparks. On top of that, they rank poorly in defending the three-point line, allowing 38.2% from deep.
Los Angeles Sparks vs Dallas Wings Prediction
Both sides play at a fast pace but defend poorly. The Los Angeles Sparks boast a powerful offence, yet their leaky defence allows rivals too many chances. The Dallas Wings, despite their season struggles, often keep games close and frequently cover the spread. With Bueckers improving and the Wings playing with freedom, the visitors look well placed to stay within striking distance. Given the Los Angeles Wings’ shaky home form and both teams’ defensive frailties, the smart pick is the visitors with a sizeable handicap.
