Los Angeles Sparks vs. Washington Mystics: Preview, Predictions and Picks for August 23, 2024

Published on:
Aug 23, 2024 8:11 AM
The Washington Mystics aim to snap their five-game losing streak as they host the Los Angeles Sparks at the Entertainment & Sports Arena on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 7:30 PM. Both teams share an identical 6-22 record, with the Mystics struggling at home (3-11) and the Sparks faltering on the road (2-12). In this crucial WNBA matchup, the Mystics will look to even the regular season series, currently tied at 1-1.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Los Angeles Sparks
Washington Mystics

Sparks vs Mystics statistics

Stat Sparks Mystics
Streak L5 L5
Last Ten Games 2-8 2-8
Points Per Game 77.9 79.0
Rebounds Per Game 32.9 31.9
Assists Per Game 19.8 22.0
Blocks Per Game 3.4 3.0
Steals Per Game 7.1 7.1
Field Goal % 42.0 42.8
Three Point % 32.1 36.4
Points Against 85.6 84.2

Washington Mystics recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
8/20/24 vs Seattle Storm L 83-77
8/17/24 vs Minnesota Lynx L 99-83
8/15/24 @ Minnesota Lynx L 79-68
7/16/24 vs Phoenix Mercury L 96-87
7/14/24 vs Las Vegas Aces L 89-77

Los Angeles Sparks recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
8/20/24 @ Connecticut Sun L 69-61
8/18/24 @ Las Vegas Aces L 87-71
8/17/24 vs Chicago Sky L 90-86
8/15/24 vs New York Liberty L 103-68
7/16/24 vs Seattle Storm L 89-83

Sparks vs Mystics predictions

This showdown between the Los Angeles Sparks and Washington Mystics is poised to be a thriller, especially with key players like Dearica Hamby and Aari McDonald on the court. Hamby, who's pulling down an impressive 10.1 rebounds per game, could be a huge difference-maker in keeping the ball in LA's possession. Though she's been averaging a solid 18 points a game, Washington will need to focus on limiting her impact in the paint. Meanwhile, McDonald, provided she’s fit to play amidst her foot issue, brings a dynamic edge with her playmaking abilities, averaging 4 assists per game. Her presence is crucial in setting the rhythm for the Sparks.

Switching gears to the Washington Mystics, Ariel Atkins stands out as their go-to scorer, averaging 15.8 points per game. Her ability to perform under pressure could very well light up the scoreboard tonight. Additionally, the Mystics will lean on Julie Vanloo, whose vision and 5.0 assists per game make her an invaluable asset in creating scoring opportunities. Not to be overlooked, Aaliyah Edwards needs to step up her game on the boards. If she can notch numbers near her 5.8 rebound average, that could spell trouble for LA, especially in those crucial moments battling for second-chance points.

Considering the recent form and performances, predicting the winner is tricky but let’s lean into it. Both teams share a similar struggle this season, but home court advantage and a slightly more cohesive unit might just tip the scales for Washington. If Atkins and Vanloo can exploit the Sparks' shaky road record and Edwards controls the rebounding game, the Mystics might just have what it takes to halt their 5-game skid. It'll definitely be close, but I'm putting my chips on Washington pulling off a narrow victory tonight. What’s your take on this matchup?

Washington Mystics injuries

  • Shakira Austin (C): Day-To-Day
  • Karlie Samuelson (G): Out

Los Angeles Sparks injuries

  • Aari McDonald (G): Day-To-Day
  • Layshia Clarendon (G): Day-To-Day
  • Lexie Brown (G): Out
  • Cameron Brink (F): Out

Sparks vs Mystics game info

Venue Entertainment & Sports Arena
Location Washington, DC
Tip-off Fri 7:30 PM
TV ION

Los Angeles Sparks vs. Washington Mystics Betting Odds

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