Lynx vs Wings Picks and Prediction – 5/16/2025

The Minnesota Lynx visit the Dallas Wings on Friday to play the opening game of the 2025 WNBA regular season for both teams. Minnesota finished the preseason 1-1 with a win and a loss in two games versus the Chicago Sky. Minnesota reached the Finals last season before being eliminated by the New York Liberty, but is one of the favorites to win the title in 2025. Keep up to date with the WNBA with our WNBA picks.

Minnesota's roster is once again loaded with talent, led by forward Napheesa Collier, who last season averaged 20.4 points and 9.7 rebounds per game to lead Minnesota in both. Collier will be joined by Kayla McBride, Karlie Samuelson, Jessica Shepherd, Courtney Williams, and Alissa Pili, amongst others. The Lynx are tough to stop with the ball and also play strong defense.

The Dallas Wings completed their preseason 1-1 with a loss to the Las Vegas Aces and a victory over the Toyota Antelopes. Dallas has a new head coach in Chris Koclanes, and last season was 9-31, missing the playoffs. The Wings had the league’s worst defense and lacked offensive weapons to stay close. Injuries sidelined star Satou Sabally for 25 games. 

Just three players from last year's roster return, including Tierra McCowan, Maddy Siegrist, and Arike Ogunbowale, who is the franchise player. Ogunbowale has played in three WNBA All-Star Games and has received league MVP votes in each of her first six seasons. Last season, Ogunbowale averaged 22.2 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game.

Minnesota reached the WNBA finals last season before losing to the New York Liberty, while Dallas missed the WNBA postseason after winning just nine games. Minnesota has one of the league’s best forwards in Napheesa Collier and is expected to battle for the league title in 2025. Dallas has only three players back from last season’s roster and will need plenty of time to gel as a unit, giving Minnesota a distinct advantage on opening night. Final Score Prediction: Minnesota Lynx wins and covers ATS 90-79.