Sparks vs Storm Prediction WNBA Picks 8/31
- Lm Tipster
- Aug 31, 2023, 12:52:41 AM
© Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Seattle Storm vs Los Angeles Sparks: Breaking the Losing Streak
The Seattle Storm (10-25, 7-9 Western Conference) will travel to Los Angeles to face the Sparks (15-20, 8-10 Western Conference) on Thursday at 10 p.m. EDT. The Storm are aiming to break a three-game losing streak, while the Sparks will look to capitalize on their home-court advantage.
Los Angeles Sparks: A Snapshot
Mediocre Home Record
The Sparks hold a 9-9 record at home this season, showing they are far from unbeatable on their own turf. Their inconsistency, particularly at home, should be a concern.
Player Performance
Dearica Hamby and Nneka Ogwumike have been standout performers for the Sparks, but they will need a full team effort to ward off the Storm, especially considering their injuries. Ogwumike is averaging 17.9 points over the last 10 games.
Injury Woes
The Sparks have multiple injuries affecting their roster. Chiney Ogwumike is out with a foot injury, and Lexie Brown is out for the season due to illness. These injuries weaken their depth, particularly in key positions.
Seattle Storm: An In-depth Look
Keeping It Close
Despite their losing record, the Storm have been competitive, especially in recent games. They rank third in the Western Conference with 26.6 defensive rebounds per game, led by Ezi Magbegor. This suggests they are capable of keeping games close, adding weight to their ability to cover the spread.
Top Performers
Jewell Loyd and Sami Whitcomb have been stellar for the Storm. Loyd is averaging 24.0 points in the last 10 games, indicating she's in top form. Whitcomb is another threat, contributing 9.5 points on average.
Prediction
Sparks' Home Record
Given the Sparks' mediocre 9-9 home record, there's enough room for doubt about their ability to dominate at home.
Storm’s Resilience
The Storm have been able to keep their games close recently, indicating a fighting spirit. They might be on a losing streak, but they are certainly not down and out. The defensive rebounds stat is a testament to their ability to hang tough.
Impact Players
The form of Jewell Loyd and the defensive prowess of Ezi Magbegor could make all the difference. With Loyd’s scoring ability and Magbegor’s rebounding, the Storm are well-equipped to challenge the Sparks.
Final Thoughts
Considering the Sparks' home record, coupled with the Storm’s ability to keep games close and their strong individual performances, it is highly likely that the Storm will cover the +5.5 points spread. While it may be a tightly contested game, the signs point to a closer battle than what the spread suggests.
Pick: Storm +5.5 -110
