The playoffs will take place for the top eight teams in the 2019 WNBA standings. These spots are currently held by the Las Vegas Aces and Seattle Storm. But there are some surprises waiting in the standings. Phoenix and Las Vegas both struggle to close on the road games. Minnesota's Big Three, however, has been a consistent Achilles heel all season. Let's examine some of the other teams within the league.
Phoenix's offense is inconsistent
Although the team has had inconsistent offensive production, its forwards have been a bright light. Brianna Turner averages 17.2 point per game but her efficiency is lacking. She shoots only 38 percent from the field, and 27 percent from three point range. Sandy Brondello has been a successful coach in developing younger players. She has 17 career playoff wins. She is also a young, energetic coach who inspires others.
Phoenix has been a consistent defense team, but it has struggled to score in recent matches. Despite Diana Taurasi's 10th straight win and 20 points, the Mercury lost to Atlanta Dream. The Mercury's defensive rating is 103.5, but their offensive rating is just 103.3. Skylar Diggins-Smith, who averages 36 fantasy points per game, is another player to keep an eye on.
Las Vegas has had a difficult time closing games on the road
Las Vegas is at the forefront of the playoff race, with only three games left this week. It is only a half-game back of Connecticut for the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Washington and Seattle are half-agame apart for the fourth, fifth and sixth seeds. Dallas has already secured the sixth seed and is most likely to win the postseason. With only one game between seventh-place Atlanta (No. 11-seed Los Angeles.
Despite losing close games on road, the Aces have been unstoppable home. The Aces have won four straight games against the Bulls, and they have won nine of their last 11. Although they are still in contention to climb the standings, their three most recent losses were in the postseason. Their recent win in hostile conditions could give them momentum as they head into the postseason.
Minnesota's Big Three have been Minnesota's Achilles' heel all season
Health issues at the running back and wide receiver positions have hampered the Gophers running game. Mohamed Ibrahim (a true freshman) suffered a season ending injury in the opener. Unfortunately, the team is still without its top running backs. Chris Autman Bell was injured and missed the first two games. He is expected to return Saturday. The remaining scholarship running backs may not be as fit as they were at the start of the season.
Although the offensive line was the Achilles' heel of the season, it has shown some improvement in the past week. Christian Darrisaw will begin as the full time left tackle. Garrett Bradbury has returned to center. Ezra Cleveland is still settling into his role at left guard. Jesse Davis and Ed Ingram will compete for the right-guard spot.