The top eight teams in the 2019 WNBA standings will make the playoffs. These spots currently belong to the Las Vegas Aces, and Seattle Storm. But there are some surprises waiting in the standings. Phoenix and Las Vegas have struggled on the road to win games while Minnesota's Big Three was a constant Achilles heal all season. Let's take a closer look at some of the other teams in the league.
Phoenix's offense has been inconsistent
The team's offensive production has been inconsistent throughout the standings but the forwards have been a bright point. Brianna Turner averages 17.2 ppg, but her efficiency has been poor. She is shooting only 38 percent from field and just 27 percent from 3-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. On Sunday, the Mercury fell to the Atlanta Dream, despite having Diana Taurasi record her 10th straight game with 20 points. The Mercury's defensive rating for defense is 103.5 and their offensive rating only 103.3. Skylar Dipgins-Smith is another player worth your attention, scoring an average of 36 fantasy points per contest.
Las Vegas has struggled with closing road games
Las Vegas is at the forefront of the playoff race, with only three games left this week. It is just half-game ahead of Connecticut for the Eastern Conference second seed. Washington and Seattle are about half-a-game behind each other for the fourth- and fifth seeds. Dallas, however, has already secured a playoff spot and will likely be the sixth seed. There are two games between seventh-place Atlanta, and No. 11-seed Los Angeles.
Despite losing close games on road, the Aces have been unstoppable home. The Aces have won 4 straight games against Bulls, while they have won 9 of their last 11. They have been in contention for a rise in the standings, despite their three losses in the postseason. A recent win in a hostile environment could help them gain momentum heading into the postseason.
Minnesota's Big Three have been Minnesota’s Achilles’ heel all season
Health problems at the wide receiver position and running back positions have hindered the Gophers' running game. True freshman Mohamed Ibrahim was injured in the opener and is currently out of action. Chris Autman Bell, who was injured in the first two games, is expected back to play Saturday. However, the remaining scholarship backs aren’t as fit as they were during the first season.
The Achilles’ heel of this season's offensive line has been the offensive sideline. But, things have changed in just the last week. Christian Darrisaw will start at left tackle. Garrett Bradbury will return to center. Ezra Cleveland is still getting used to his position at left guard. Jesse Davis, Ed Ingram, Chris Reed, and Ed Reed will all be fighting for the rightguard spot.