Dream vs Mystics Picks and Prediction – 5/16/2025

The Atlanta Dream visit the Washington Mystics on Friday in the opening game of the 2025 WNBA season for both teams. Atlanta completed the preseason 1-1 victory over the Washington Mystics, and they lost to the Indiana Fever. Atlanta lost Tina Charles and Parker-Tyus during the offseason, but made three important changes that should help the team. Keep up to date with the WNBA with our expert WNBA picks.

Carl Smesko is the new head coach and brings an offensive mindset to the Dream. Rhyne Howard is the focal point of the offense for Atlanta, while Allisha Gray gives the Dream added offense. Atlanta picked up Brittney Griner from Phoenix, which gives the Dream much-needed experience and a strong frontcourt presence. The Dream also acquired Brionna Jones from Connecticut, and gives the Dream a much-needed defensive presence.

The Washington Mystics completed their preseason at 0-2 with losses to the Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream. Washington missed the playoffs last season by one game after opening with 12 consecutive losses. Sydney Johnson is the new head coach for Washington. The Mystics hope that Brittney Sykes and Shakira Austin can remain healthy this season after being injury-plagued last season.

Four of Washington's most productive players from last year are no longer with the Mystics. Washington bolstered its roster with three picks in the first six in the WNBA draft. The Mystics drafted Sonia Citron, Kiki Iriafen, and Georgia Amoore, but Amoore was lost for the season to an ACL tear. The rookies join returnees Austin, Sykes, Sika Kone, and Aaliyah Edwars to give Washington a solid core.  

Washington looks completely different than last season, as several regulars are no longer on the roster and the Mystics added two draft picks and other off-season acquisitions. Atlanta has most of its roster intact from last season, including Rhyne Howard and Allisha Gray, who will be joined by off-season acquisitions Brittney Griner and Brionna Jones. Washington will need time to gel as a unit, while Atlanta will start strong. Final Score Prediction: Atlanta Dream wins and covers ATS 84-74.