One step away: The Lynx won’t get a chance to vanquish the defending champions. Phoenix took care of that by knocking out the Liberty. The revenge factor no longer exists, but the Lynx are facing a better team. They can not expect to fall behind the Mercury, which they did in both games against the Valkyries, and just turn it on. This series will be a battle.
Thomas vs Collier: Thomas averaged 15.4 points, 8.8 rebounds and 9.2 assists during the regular season. That’s approaching triple-double territory. The Lynx’s top-rated defense will be challenged to stop one of the most dynamic players in the league. The Lynx, of course, have their own in Napheesa Collier. This is a collision of MVP finalists.
Courtney Williams: Courtney Williams found other ways to contribute but shot 7-of-19 from the field in the series against Golden State. The Lynx are fortunate to have Natisha Hiedeman to come off the bench and provide some production. But the Lynx are hard to beat when Williams is scoring. Get Courtney going.
Record: 34-10 (first); 27-17 (fourth)