The playoffs are for the eight best teams in 2019 WNBA standings. These spots are currently held by the Las Vegas Aces and Seattle Storm. However, a few surprises can still lurk in the standings. Phoenix and Las Vegas have struggled to close games on the road, while Minnesota's Big Three has been a constant Achilles heel all season. Let's have a closer look at some other teams in the league.
Phoenix has been inconsistent in its offense
While the team's offensive production has been inconsistent in the standings, its forwards have been a bright spot. Brianna Turner averages 17.2 ppg, but her efficiency has been poor. 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.
Phoenix has been an excellent team in defense but has struggled to score recently. Despite Diana Taurasi recording her 10th consecutive win with 20 points, Sunday's Mercury loss was to Atlanta Dream. The Mercury's offensive rating is just 103.3, while their defensive rating is 103.5. Skylar Diggins-Smith, who averages 36 fantasy points per game, is another player to keep an eye on.
Las Vegas has had trouble closing games on-the-road.
With three games to go this week, Las Vegas is in the thick of the playoff race. It is just half a point behind Connecticut for the Eastern Conference's 2nd seed. Washington and Seattle are about half-a-game behind each other for the fourth- and fifth seeds. Dallas, however, has already secured a playoff spot and will likely be the sixth seed. With only one game between seventh-place Atlanta (No. 11-seed Los Angeles.
Despite struggling to close games on the road, the Aces have been unstoppable at home. The Aces are unstoppable at home, having won four straight games against Bulls. They also won nine of the last 11. They have been in contention for a rise in the standings, despite their three losses 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 all season
Health problems at the wide receiver position and running back positions have hindered the Gophers' running game. Mohamed Ibrahim, a true freshman, suffered a season-ending injury in the opener, and the team is still without its top three running backs. Chris Autman Bell is expected play Saturday, despite missing the first two matches due to injury. However, the remaining scholarship running backs are not as healthy as they were in the beginning of the season.
The offensive line has been the Achilles' heel all season, but it has turned around in the last week. Christian Darrisaw, the left tackle, will take over. Garrett Bradbury is back at the center. Ezra Cleveland has yet to settle into his new role as left guard. Jesse Davis and Ed Ingram will compete for the right-guard spot.