The playoffs are for the eight best teams in 2019 WNBA standings. These spots are currently held by the Las Vegas Aces and Seattle Storm. There are still surprises lurking 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 look at the other league teams.
Phoenix's offense has been inconsistent
While the team's offensive production has been inconsistent in the standings, its forwards have been a bright spot. 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. Coach Sandy Brondello has 17 career playoff wins and has been successful at developing younger players. Her youthful energy inspires others.
While Phoenix has been a relatively consistent team on defense, it has struggled to score in recent games. Despite Diana Taurasi scoring 20 in her 10th consecutive game, 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 point per game, is another player worth keeping an eye on.
Las Vegas has struggled with closing road games
Las Vegas is still in the thicket for the playoff race. It is just half a point behind Connecticut for the Eastern Conference's 2nd seed. 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. The playoff race is wide open with only one game separating seventh place Atlanta from No. 11-seed Los Angeles.
The Aces are unstoppable at home, despite losing several games on the road. The Aces have won four straight games against the Bulls, and they have won nine of their last 11. Their three losses this season were in postseason play, but they still have the potential to climb the standings. 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 throughout the entire 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.
Although the offensive line was the Achilles' heel of the season, it has shown some improvement in the past week. Christian Darrisaw is set to start as the full-time left tackle and Garrett Bradbury returns at center. Ezra Cleveland continues to adjust to his position as left guard. Jesse Davis and Ed Ingram will compete for the right-guard spot.