The Minnesota Lynx hit a wall. The best team in the league so far looked unusually frantic in the final minutes of their last game against the Phoenix Mercury. They are not used to dry spells as the Phoenix held them to just 4 points in the final 5 minutes while scoring 19 themselves. That’s the paradox of consistent success, as when a team is so used to leading, it often lacks the experience or composure to respond effectively when the momentum shifts. The real test comes not in maintaining dominance, but in adapting when that dominance is challenged.
Even with stars Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper out for the Mercury, the Lynx struggled to take advantage of the absences. They failed to stop Alyssa Thomas, who scored 29 while assisting 5 and grabbing 8 rebounds as well. For the Lynx, Napheesa Collier and Courtney Williams dominated the box score with 21 and 18 points, respectively. They had little support from their teammates, as no one went past 10 points other than them. The Lynx will hope this was just a one-game setback instead of being the start of a losing streak. They next face the Los Angeles Sparks, who are coming into this game on the back of an inspiring win.
The Sparks have defeated the Fever twice this season, accounting for their only victories in their last eight games. These wins came through a collective team effort, with four of the five starters scoring in double figures. Azurá Stevens delivered an all-around performance, finishing with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 assists. Despite trailing at the end of both the first and second quarters, the Sparks rallied in the third to take a one-point lead heading into the final period.
The turnaround was driven largely by Stevens and Dearica Hamby, who combined to score more than half of the team’s second-half points. However, their next matchup against the Lynx will present a much tougher challenge. Let’s assess whether either team is dealing with any injuries and take a look at the projected starting lineups for the upcoming game.
Minnesota Lynx Vs LA Sparks: Injury Report
Minnesota Lynx:
Karlie Samuelson: Out For Season (Foot)
Los Angeles Sparks
Cameron Brink: Out (Knee)
Minnesota Lynx Vs LA Sparks: Predicted Lineups
Minnesota Lynx:
Bridget Carleton
Alanna Smith
Napheesa Collier
Kayla McBride
Courtney Williams
LA Sparks:
Dearica Hamby
Azura Stevens
Rickea Jackson
Kelsey Plum
Julie Allemand
Minnesota Lynx Vs LA Sparks: Match Preview And Prediction
Minnesota will look to forget its last game and look to continue its habit of beating the Sparks. The two games between these two sides have been won by the Lynx by a combined 37 points, and the Lynx will look to stretch that further. In their previous match-up up Sparks couldn’t even touch 20 points in any of the quarters, further underscoring their struggle against this top side.
There is no shame in losing to the Lynx, as they are comfortably the best attacking and defensive teams in the league. However, a few blips in the last games have proved that they have their flaws, too. The Lynx may be the best team, but they are the slowest, while on the other hand, the Sparks are the third fastest team in the league.
Jun 11, 2025; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Los Angeles Sparks forwards Emma Cannon (32) and Rickea Jackson (2) celebrate after scoring against the Las Vegas Aces during the first half of a WNBA basketball game at Michelob Ultra Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images
So far, the Lynx have dealt with the faster teams in their own fashion. They have made them play the game at their own pace. In their last game, the Mercury, who are the second fastest team in the league, overwhelmed them in the final minutes. Sparks can look at that and use it once again and exploiting their lack of urgency. The three losses have come against faster teams, which shows they can be a little exposed against such play.
But that is only if Sparks control the pace of the game. They have the tools with Stevens, Plum, and Hamby to expose this weakness. They will also need to stop leaking points at the other end, which means limiting MVP candidate Napheesa Collier to limited touches. Collier is the best scorer by far, but McBride and Williams are also dangerous on their day. Being one of the worst defensive teams in the league, it will take a lot of effort to limit these quality players, but it is the need of the hour in order to turn their season around and gain some momentum.
The Minnesota Lynx enter this matchup as clear favorites, backed by a 70.8% win probability from ESPN’s predictor and a track record of elite consistency. Having yet to lose back-to-back games this season, they remain a dominant force. For the Sparks, overcoming a vulnerable defense and inconsistent form will require an extraordinary effort. Given their recent struggles and the strength of Minnesota’s offense, it’s difficult to envision anything but a Lynx victory.
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