Phoenix Mercury vs Washington Mystics Picks and Predictions September 5th 2024

Mystics face Mercury in late push for final playoff berth

As the WNBA playoff race heats up, the Phoenix Mercury have already clinched their spot, while the Washington Mystics are making a desperate late push to secure the final playoff berth. In what could be a season-defining matchup, the Mystics travel to Phoenix on Thursday night to keep their postseason dreams alive. Here’s a breakdown of this crucial game and what’s at stake for both teams.

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Washington Mystics: A Stunning Turnaround

The Mystics (10-23) have defied expectations in recent weeks. After enduring a 12-game losing streak at the start of the season, Washington now finds itself just one game behind both the Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream, who are tied at 11-22 for the final playoff spot. Remarkably, with seven games left in the season, the Mystics are within striking distance of the postseason, having won four of their last five games.

Washington’s resurgence can largely be attributed to their bench’s outstanding play. In their latest win—a 90-86 victory on the road against the Dallas Wings—the Mystics posted a massive 50-13 advantage in bench points. Leading the charge was Emily Engstler, who delivered a standout performance with 19 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks, including three clutch three-pointers.

“I just felt comfortable,” Engstler said after the game. “We played really well as a collective, and that’s contagious.”

The Mystics’ depth has been a key factor during this hot streak. With role players like Engstler stepping up at crucial moments, Washington is proving that they have the talent and resilience to make an improbable playoff run.

Phoenix Mercury: Playoff-Bound but Struggling for Form

While the Mercury (17-17) have already punched their ticket to the postseason, their recent form has been inconsistent. Phoenix has gone 1-3 over the last four games, with their lone victory coming in a 74-66 win over the Atlanta Dream—a result that secured their playoff berth.

The Mercury’s top offensive threat, Kahleah Copper, was instrumental in that win, pouring in 28 points. Copper has been a consistent scorer for Phoenix throughout the season, and her ability to deliver in critical moments will be crucial as the team looks to build momentum heading into the playoffs.

However, Phoenix’s defense has been a concern. In their recent games, lapses on the defensive end have allowed opponents to stay competitive, something that could hurt them against a suddenly surging Washington squad.

The Impact of Key Absences

One factor that could shape this game is the potential absence of Washington’s Natasha Cloud, who missed the previous game after receiving her seventh technical foul, resulting in a one-game suspension. Cloud’s absence was a significant blow to Washington, but it opened the door for Celeste Taylor, who made the most of her opportunity.

Taylor, in just her second stint with the Mercury this season, moved into the starting lineup and played a career-high 33 minutes. Her defensive effort was a highlight, as she guarded two of the league’s top wings and helped Phoenix lock down their opponent.

“She’s a tough kid, and she competes,” Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts said of Taylor. “You can put her on the floor because of her defense.”

If Cloud remains sidelined, Taylor’s defensive abilities will once again be crucial for Phoenix as they aim to slow down Washington’s offensive momentum.

Head-to-Head History: Advantage Mercury

Phoenix holds the upper hand in this season’s head-to-head battles, having won both previous matchups against Washington. That history gives them a confidence boost heading into Thursday’s game. However, the Mystics’ recent form and ability to pull off wins in tough situations suggest this encounter could be far more competitive than their earlier meetings.

Washington’s Mindset: Focus on the Present

While the stakes are high for the Mystics, coach Eric Thibault has been careful to keep his team focused on one game at a time. Despite being on the cusp of a playoff berth, there has been no internal discussion about the postseason. Instead, the focus has been on maintaining the strong play that has brought Washington back into the race.

“We’re just taking it game by game,” Thibault said. “If we play the way we’ve been playing recently, the rest will take care of itself.”

This measured approach seems to be working. The Mystics’ recent performances suggest they are peaking at the right time, making them a dangerous opponent for any team, including Phoenix.

Keys to the Game

1. Bench Play: The Mystics’ bench, led by Emily Engstler, has been a difference-maker in recent games. If Washington can continue to get significant contributions from their reserves, it could swing the game in their favor.
2. Defense: Phoenix will rely heavily on Celeste Taylor’s defensive tenacity, especially if Natasha Cloud remains out. Slowing down Washington’s offense and containing their bench scoring will be key to Phoenix securing the win.
3. Kahleah Copper’s Scoring: Copper has been the engine behind Phoenix’s offense. If she can replicate her recent performances, the Mercury will have a good chance to outpace the Mystics.
4. Momentum: Washington is riding a wave of momentum, having won four of their last five games. If they can continue their strong play, particularly with solid defense and bench contributions, they could spoil Phoenix’s playoff preparations and keep their own postseason hopes alive.

Final Thoughts: A Pivotal Matchup

This game is critical for the Washington Mystics, who are fighting tooth and nail to keep their playoff hopes alive. While Phoenix has already secured their spot, they need a win to restore some consistency and confidence heading into the postseason. With Washington’s recent hot streak and Phoenix’s defensive concerns, this promises to be a thrilling and tightly contested matchup.

Though the Mercury have won both previous meetings this season, the Mystics’ newfound resilience and depth could make this game a different story. A win for Washington would not only boost their playoff chances but also send a message that they are a team no one should underestimate as the postseason approaches.

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