Storm vs Mercury Picks and Prediction – 9/20/2024

The Seattle Storm (24-15) visit the Phoenix Mercury (19-20) in a crucial Western Conference matchup. Seattle comes off a narrow 90-87 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks, while Phoenix grabbed a 93-88 win over Chicago. Both teams need this victory to solidify playoff positioning, making this an exciting game to watch. Take the WNBA by storm with our WNBA picks.

The Storm's offense, led by Jewell Loyd, who averages 19.7 points per game, has been potent all season. However, Loyd's absence due to injury leaves a big gap in Seattle’s attack. Seattle’s team averages 83.1 points per game, shooting 43.5% from the field. With Ezi Magbegor also out, offensive rhythm could suffer. Seattle will need Natasha Cloud to step up, as she has been contributing 11.7 points and 6.9 assists per game. 

Defensively, the Storm allows 79 points per game, showing more stability than Phoenix. Averages of 9.4 steals per game and 5.2 blocks have been vital in disrupting opponents' offenses. Without Magbegor, the defense will lean heavily on Skylar Diggins-Smith to anchor the perimeter, though Seattle’s overall defensive depth might struggle against a Phoenix team motivated by recent wins.

Phoenix enters the game on a two-game winning streak, fueled by Brittney Griner’s dominance. Griner, fresh off a 26-point outing, leads a Mercury offense that averages 81.7 points per game and shoots 43.8% from the field. However, Phoenix will be missing leading scorer Kahleah Copper, leaving Griner to shoulder even more of the scoring load. Phoenix will rely on its perimeter shooting and ball movement, but losing a key scorer like Copper could hinder the ability to sustain offensive pressure.

Defensively, the Mercury have struggled all season, allowing 84.6 points per game, and defensive rebounding has been shaky, averaging just 32.3 boards per contest. Griner has been the team's leading rebounder with 6.5 per game, but she will need to elevate her play against a Seattle team that excels in the paint, as well as receive more help from teammates. 

Despite injuries, Seattle’s defensive consistency gives them the edge over Phoenix, whose lackluster defense could struggle to contain the Storm’s offensive depth. Final Score Prediction: Seattle Storm win 85-80.