WNBA: Can the Dream make the playoffs for the second-straight season?

The Atlanta Dream (11-21) saw their progress after a three-game winning streak post-Olympic break vanish with a four-game losing streak. However, they managed to break this streak with an 80-62 victory over the Sparks in Los Angeles on Sept. 1.

This win boosted their playoff chances, tying them with the Chicago Sky for the eighth seed in the standings. Their upcoming game against the Sky on Sept. 17 could determine the final playoff spot. Other teams like the Washington Mystics and Dallas Wings are also in contention for the eighth seed.

To secure their playoff hopes, Atlanta aims to achieve a .500 record in the next six games:

Tuesday, Sept. 3: at Phoenix Mercury (10 p.m. ET, League Pass)

Friday, Sept. 6: vs. Dallas Wings (7:30 p.m. ET, ION)

Sunday, Sept. 8: at Indiana Fever (4 p.m. ET, ESPN3/League Pass)

Tuesday, Sept. 10: vs. Minnesota Lynx (7:30 p.m. ET, League Pass)

Friday, Sept. 13: vs. Washington Mystics (7:30 p.m. ET, ION)

Sunday, Sept. 15: at Washington Mystics (3 p.m. ET, League Pass)

Atlanta, known for underachievement and inconsistency, needs to perform well in these games to secure a playoff spot.

A Rhyne Howard hot streak

Rhyne Howard’s performance is crucial for Atlanta’s success. Despite a tough season, Howard has the potential to lead the team to victories with her scoring prowess.

Howard’s shooting struggles can be attributed to her reliance on 3-pointers. She needs to diversify her game to maximize her impact on the court.

The return of Cheyenne Parker-Tyus

Cheyenne Parker-Tyus’ return from injury is crucial for Atlanta as she brings offensive skills that the team needs. Her absence has been felt, and her comeback can boost the Dream’s chances.

40 minutes of urgency

Atlanta’s resilience in games is commendable, but they need to improve their starts to secure wins. Urgency and consistency throughout the entire game will be essential for their playoff push.

Tina Charles continues to show why she’s an all-time great in this league

23 PTS10 REB2 AST1 STL 11-17 FG

In the win over the Sparks, she becomes the first player in WNBA history to reach 100 career 20+ PTS, 10+ REB games! pic.twitter.com/CtpVTWsKh9

— WNBA (@WNBA) September 2, 2024