Opening bell: The Lynx staged an impressive comeback in Game 1, erasing an 18-point deficit and ultimately winning in overtime after being down by 15 halfway through the fourth quarter and by 11 with just over 3 minutes remaining. Although Minnesota narrowed a 17-point gap to just two with 3:40 left, they were outscored 12-0 for the rest of the game. The outcome of this series may depend on how well the stars of each team are supported by their role players. Natisha Hiedeman contributed 10 points, three rebounds, and two assists for the Lynx in Game 1. Additionally, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, whose knee is recovering, scored 20 points on 8-for-14 shooting for the Liberty in Game 2 on Sunday.
Watch her: Lynx star Napheesa Collier put up 16 points on 7-for-12 shooting with eight rebounds on Sunday, but also had seven turnovers, tying her career high. Collier is expected to bounce back, as she has an impressive track record in the playoffs, scoring 219 points in nine games at an average of 24.3 points per game. This total ranks as the fourth-highest ever scored in a WNBA playoff run. She is just 15 points away from Maya Moore’s record of 234 points in 2015, 21 points away from Brittney Griner’s 240 points for Phoenix in 2021, and 26 points away from Diana Taurasi’s 245 points for Phoenix in 2009.
Forecast: New York displayed a strong offensive performance in Game 2, especially from beyond the three-point line. It will be a challenging task for the Lynx to regain momentum from the top-seeded Liberty.
