Mystics vs Mercury predictions
When you look at the recent form of the Washington Mystics, it’s hard to ignore just how much of a spark Brittney Sykes has been providing. She’s not just putting up monster scoring numbers—averaging around 26 points per game—but she’s running the show with 5 assists as well. The big question, of course, is her day-to-day injury status and whether she’s at 100% for the clash in Phoenix. If Sykes is close to her best, you’ve got to think she’ll be putting up big stats all night, especially paired with Kiki Iriafen, who’s quietly been one of the most relentless rebounders in the league. Iriafen is snagging nearly 11 boards a game and should give the Mystics plenty of second-chance opportunities, which could really keep them in striking distance on the road.
On the other side, the Phoenix Mercury are off to a hot start, especially when they play in front of the home crowd at PHX Arena. Satou Sabally is a name that immediately jumps out—she’s been filling up the stat sheet with more than 22 points a night, and she’s got that ability to take over a game in crunch time. Then there’s Alyssa Thomas, the engine of the team, dishing out nearly 7 assists and pulling down almost 8 rebounds per contest. It feels like Thomas is everywhere at once, and her versatility really sets the Mercury apart. If Sabally stays aggressive and Thomas keeps the ball moving, Phoenix could exploit any gaps left by the Mystics’ defense, especially in transition.
It sets up for a pretty intriguing matchup, doesn’t it? While both teams have individual stars who could tip the balance, Phoenix looks a bit more well-rounded at this point, especially considering their unbeaten home record. Unless the Mystics can get a huge game from both Sykes and Iriafen—and maybe catch Phoenix off a rare off-night—it’s tough to pick against the Mercury in their own building. My money’s on Phoenix to pull out the win, but hey, with the way the WNBA has been going, don’t be surprised if it’s a close one right up to the final buzzer.
