Minnesota Lynx vs Conneticut Sun Prediction WNBA Picks 6/1
- Lm Tipster
- Jun 1, 2023, 5:40:37 AM
© Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports
Introduction:
In an exciting matchup, the Connecticut Sun (4-1) will face off against the struggling Minnesota Lynx (0-5) at the Target Center on June 1, 2023. With the Sun showcasing a strong start to the season and the Lynx looking for their first win, this game promises to be an intriguing battle. In this article, we'll provide an extensive review of both teams, focusing on their offense, defense, and injury status, before making a prediction.
Connecticut Sun - Offense, Defense, and Injuries:
The Connecticut Sun have had an impressive start to the season, boasting a 4-1 record and sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings. Offensively, the Sun have been led by the dynamic duo of DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas. Bonner is averaging 15.4 points per game (PPG) and shooting an impressive 80.0% from the field, while Thomas has contributed 12.4 rebounds per game (RPG) and 5.2 assists per game (APG).
Defensively, the Sun have been stifling their opponents, holding them to just 75.0 points per game (PPG) and a field goal percentage of 38.2%. Their ability to disrupt passing lanes and generate steals, averaging 7.4 steals per game, has been a key factor in their success. The Sun have also shown resilience, bouncing back after a recent loss to the New York Liberty.
In terms of injuries, the Sun have been relatively healthy, with no significant concerns reported. This allows them to maintain their consistency and cohesion on both ends of the court.
Minnesota Lynx - Offense, Defense, and Injuries:
The Minnesota Lynx have had a challenging start to the season, still searching for their first win after five games. Offensively, Napheesa Collier has been a bright spot for the team, averaging 16.6 PPG and shooting an impressive 42.3% from the field. However, the Lynx have struggled to find consistent scoring options beyond Collier, resulting in their offensive struggles.
Defensively, the Lynx have faced difficulties, allowing opponents to score an average of 87.6 PPG and shoot 40.7% from the field. The team's lack of size and interior presence has been a significant factor in their defensive struggles, resulting in a negative point differential. Additionally, the Lynx have been plagued by turnovers, averaging 18.6 per game.
Injuries have also played a role in the Lynx's struggles, with key players like Sylvia Fowles and Crystal Dangerfield missing games due to various ailments. These absences have hampered the team's cohesion and ability to execute their game plan effectively.
Prediction
Despite the contrasting performances of the two teams thus far, we predict that the Minnesota Lynx will cover the +7.5 points spread. While the Sun have been dominant in their victories, the Lynx have shown signs of improvement and have been competitive in some of their losses.
The Lynx will likely benefit from playing at home, where they have a chance to rally their passionate fanbase and find their rhythm. Additionally, the return of key players like Sylvia Fowles and Crystal Dangerfield from injury should provide a much-needed boost to the team's offense and defense.
Furthermore, the Lynx's perimeter defense, led by the likes of Napheesa Collier and Bridget Carleton, has the potential to disrupt the Sun's offensive flow and limit their scoring opportunities. If the Lynx can tighten up their defense and capitalize on scoring opportunities, they have a strong chance of covering the spread.
In conclusion, while the Connecticut Sun have been the superior team so far this season, we believe that the Minnesota Lynx will put up a strong fight and cover the +7.5 points spread. The Lynx's home-court advantage, the return of key players from injury, and their ability to disrupt the Sun's offense will be crucial factors in their performance.
Pick: Lynx +7.5
