Mystics vs Storm predictions
When you look at the Washington Mystics, it’s tough not to immediately focus on the explosive backcourt presence of Brittney Sykes. Averaging 17.5 points per game, Sykes looks poised to lead the charge offensively in this one—even in a road environment where the Mystics have found themselves challenged in the past. If she finds her rhythm early, watch for her to easily eclipse 15+ points and keep her squad competitive. There’s also Kiki Iriafen controlling the paint, and her 8.4 rebounds per game could be a crucial factor if the Mystics want to keep second-chance opportunities alive and limit the Storm’s transition game. The supporting cast needs to step up, so Sykes dishing out 4 or more assists isn’t out of the question as the offense looks to flow through her hands.
On the Storm side, Skylar Diggins has been putting on a clinic this season. Her scoring touch—currently at 18.2 points per game—makes it pretty likely she’ll lead the team in scoring again, especially at home in front of the Seattle faithful. Add in her playmaking (almost 6 assists per game), and it’s easy to picture her facilitating and finding open teammates if things get tight. Nneka Ogwumike should continue to be a force on the boards, especially against a Mystics team that doesn’t always dominate in the paint, and grabbing another 7 or 8 rebounds seems very much on the cards. If the role players can follow Diggins’ lead and capitalize on some home-court momentum, Seattle could be looking at a solid all-around performance.
Now, thinking about the matchup as a whole, you have a Mystics team that’s struggled a bit on the road taking on a Storm squad that’s pretty comfortable at home. With Diggins running the show and Ogwumike backing things up inside, the Storm just seem to have the edge in both talent and recent form. The Mystics have the firepower to keep things close, but unless they can shake off those road woes, Seattle seems primed to come away with the win in this cross-conference battle. Are you ready for another wild night of WNBA basketball?
