The playoffs will be decided by the eight top WNBA teams. These spots currently reside in Seattle Storm and Las Vegas Aces. There may be some surprises hidden in the standings. Phoenix and Las Vegas have struggled on the road to win games while Minnesota's Big Three was a constant Achilles heal all season. Let's take a look at the other teams in this league.
Phoenix has been inconsistent with offense
Although the team's offensive output has been inconsistent, the team's forwards have been a shining spot. Brianna's average point score is 17.2 but her efficiency has not been great. She only shoots 38 percent from behind the arc and 27 percent in three-point shooting. Sandy Brondello has 17 career playoff victories and has been successful in developing younger players. She also has a youthful energy that inspires others.
Although Phoenix has been a solid team in defense, the Phoenix team has struggled to score lately. Despite Diana Taurasi's 10th straight win and 20 points, the Mercury lost to Atlanta Dream. While the Mercury has a defensive rating of 103.5, their offensive rating is only 103.3. Skylar DIGGIN-Smith averages 36 fantasy points per match and is another player you should be keeping an eye out for.
Las Vegas has struggled to close games on the road
Las Vegas is leading the race for the playoffs with just three games remaining. For the Eastern Conference's second seed, Connecticut is just half-game behind. For the fourth and fifth seeds respectively, Seattle and Washington are half-a game behind each other. Dallas is likely to be the sixth seed. With just one game between seventh-place Atlanta & No. 11-seed Los Angeles.
Despite being unable to win on the road, they have been unstoppable at their home. The Aces won four consecutive games against the Bulls and have won nine of their 11 previous 11. Although they are still in contention to climb the standings, their three most recent losses were in the postseason. A recent win in a hostile environment could help them gain momentum heading into the postseason.
Minnesota's Big Three have been Minnesota’s Achilles’ heel for the whole season
The Gophers have had to slow down their running game due to health issues at both the wide receiver and runningback positions. Mohamed Ibrahim (a true freshman) suffered a season ending injury in the opener. Unfortunately, the team is still without its top running backs. Chris Autman Bell missed the opening two games because of injury, but is expected to be back Saturday. The remaining scholarship runners backs aren't as healthy as they were at beginning of season.
The Achilles' heel for the entire season has been the offensive line, but things have changed in the last week. Christian Darrisaw will be the full-time left tackle, while Garrett Bradbury returns to center. Ezra Cleveland has yet to settle into his new role as left guard. Chris Reed, Ed Ingram, and Jesse Davis will battle it out for the right guard spot.