Mercury vs Liberty Picks and Prediction – 5/29/2024

The Phoenix Mercury, holding a 3-2 record, will face the New York Liberty, who stand at 4-2, in a key early-season matchup. Phoenix is coming off a tough 107-92 loss to the Dallas Wings, while New York has dropped the last two games, including an 84-67 defeat to the Minnesota Lynx. This game at Barclays Center promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams look to bounce back. Take the WNBA by storm with our WNBA picks.

Phoenix Mercury has had a mixed start to the season, showcasing moments of strong play interspersed with periods of inconsistency. Leading the team is dynamic guard Kahleah Copper, averaging an impressive 29.2 points per game, with a 50.5% field goal percentage and 86.7% from the free-throw line. Despite Copper's heroics, the team has struggled defensively, conceding an average of 89.2 points per game, which is one of the highest in the league. The absence of Brittney Griner due to injury has significantly impacted the interior defense and rebounding, with the team managing only 34.6 rebounds per game.

On the offensive end, Phoenix has been relatively efficient, scoring 88.2 points per game and maintaining a field goal percentage of 42.3%. However, the defensive lapses have cost them dearly, evident in the average points against. The assist numbers are promising, averaging 21.4 per game, indicating good ball movement. Sug Sutton's potential return could provide a much-needed boost in the backcourt.

The New York Liberty, meanwhile, have been more balanced, combining a solid offensive output with a stout defense. Led by forward Breanna Stewart, who is averaging 19.5 points per game on 45.7% shooting, the Liberty have been effective in spreading the floor. They have a superior defensive record compared to Phoenix, allowing just 77.2 points per game, which ranks among the best in the league. This defense will be crucial in containing Phoenix's high-scoring backcourt.

New York's offense has also been productive, averaging 83.3 points per game with a 44.1% field goal percentage. They slightly edge out Phoenix in rebounding, with an average of 34.8 rebounds per game, and have been effective in forcing turnovers, averaging 8.0 steals per game.