Lynx vs Wings Picks and Prediction – 8/30/2024

The Minnesota Lynx, holding a 23-8 record, head into this matchup against Dallas as the top team in the Western Conference. In the last game, the Lynx secured an 89-76 win against Phoenix, extending a winning streak to five games. The Dallas Wings, at 8-22, sit near the bottom of the standings, though they managed a surprising 93-90 win over Las Vegas in their previous outing. Take the WNBA by storm with our WNBA picks.

The Lynx have been dominant on both ends of the court, averaging 83 points per game while holding opponents to just 75.3. Napheesa Collier leads the way, averaging 20.8 points per game, while also contributing defensively with 2.0 steals and 1.2 blocks per game. Minnesota’s offense is fueled by its efficient shooting, ranking second in the league with a 44.9% field goal percentage and first in three-point shooting at 39.2%. 

Defensively, they excel with a top-tier steal rate of 9.0 per game, creating turnovers that translate into fast-break opportunities. Recent performances have shown that they are in top form, and with no injuries reported, they are primed to continue dominating.

The Dallas Wings, despite a poor record, have shown they can compete, especially when Arike Ogunbowale is on her game. Ogunbowale, who averages 22.2 points per game, is the league's third-leading scorer, but she’ll need help from her teammates like Teaira McCowan, who contributes 11.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. Dallas struggles with consistency, particularly in ball security, as they rank 11th in turnovers with 15.2 per game. 

The defense, which allows 84.7 points per game, will be under pressure against a high-powered Lynx offense. However, the Wings have been decent on the boards, slightly edging out Minnesota in rebounds per game. The ability to score has been evident, but defensive lapses and turnovers have been the undoing of the Wings throughout the season.

The Lynx, playing at the level they have been, should be able to handle the Wings. Minnesota’s defensive intensity combined with efficient scoring, especially from deep, will likely overwhelm Dallas. While the Wings might keep it close, thanks to Ogunbowale’s scoring, the Lynx's overall team strength should prevail.Final Score Prediction: Minnesota Lynx win 90-82.