Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WNBA match.
New York Liberty
The Liberty average 89.1 points (3rd in the league) but concede 84.1 (8th). Their field goal percentage is an impressive 45.6% (3rd). Sabrina Ionescu (19.2 points) and Breanna Stewart (18.3) are the offensive leaders, but Stewart is sidelined with injury. That leaves more responsibility on Jonquel Jones (8.6 rebounds, 1.2 blocks) and Natasha Cloud (5.5 assists). The issue is spread betting — the New York Liberty have covered the line just once in their last 11 games, and against the Minnesota Lynx their recent record stands at 0-4-1.
Minnesota Lynx
The Lynx lead the WNBA both in scoring (89.7 points) and defence (78.2 points allowed). They are the league’s most accurate shooting side at 47% overall and 36.9% from three. The loss of Napheesa Collier (23.5 points, 7.5 rebounds) is significant, but the team has adjusted, with Kayla McBride (14.8), Courtney Williams (14.2 points, 6.3 assists) and Alanna Smith (1.5 blocks) stepping up at both ends. The Minnesota Lynx have won 10 of their last 11, including four straight on the road.
New York Liberty vs Minnesota Lynx Prediction
The absence of both Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier is a factor, but while the Minnesota Lynx have shown they can maintain their level without their star, the New York Liberty look vulnerable without Stewart and continue to struggle against the spread. Head-to-head numbers are also firmly in the Lynx’s favour with four wins in the last five. The visitors have the edge, and backing them with the cushion of the handicap looks the smart play.