A big showdown is scheduled for today as the Los Angeles Sparks are set to meet the Atlanta Dream for the next WNBA game. The race for the playoffs is already looking fierce. Due to their current seeds of #6 and #7, both teams could face challenges if they lose today.
After defeating the Fever in their final game, the Sparks were able to snap their three-game losing run. Nneka Ogwumike had a fantastic game, scoring a season-high amount of points (35). Jordin Canada contributed well with 11 points and 8 assists. The Sparks will want to perform thoroughly when they face the Dream at home.
When the Atlanta Dream play the Sparks at the Crypto.com Arena, they will get off to a confident start. The team must have been energized by their most recent victory over the table-topping Aces.
Tiffany Hayes had a spectacular evening, scoring a season-high 31 points. The other standout player was Rhyne Howard, who finished with 24 points and 5 rebounds. The Dream hopes to build on the momentum and defeat the Sparks at home today.
Recent Form
The Los Angeles Sparks are currently having an ordinary season. They presently hold the third spot in the Western Conference with a record of 11-14. In the previous five games, Los Angeles has won twice. This season, they’ve kept up a 6-7 home record. The Atlanta Dream will be the guest of the Sparks, who defeated the Indiana Fever in their most recent match by a score of 86-79.
Most of the Atlanta Dream’s games up to this point have been difficult. They presently hold the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference with a record of 12-14. Additionally, Atlanta has two victories in their last five games. They have so far been 6-7 as of today when traveling. The Dream will take on the Los Angeles Sparks after defeating the Las Vegas Aces by a score of 92-76 in the last contest.
Team News
Jasmine Walker’s torn ACL, which she sustained on May 21 against Las Vegas, forced her to retire for the year. After missing 23 games this season due to a knee ailment, Chiney Ogwumike is once again out. Toliver (hand) has been disqualified from this competition since she is anticipated to be sidelined until late September.
During the July 4 game against the Aces, Carter’s actions resulted in an indefinite suspension. Parker will not play again this season after announcing her pregnancy last month. On August 31, Bradford (foot) was declared out for the remainder of the campaign. Hawkins (foot) is questionable after missing the previous five games. Sims (personal) is also debatable for this competition.
Head to Head
Between these two teams in the WNBA, there have been 34 encounters to date. The LA Sparks have a slight advantage because they have 18 victories to the Dream’s 16. In the last five meetings, the Sparks have won four games to the Dream’s lone victory. On May 11, 2022, the prior meeting took place. That match was won by the Atlanta Dream 77-75.
Favorites to Win
This matchup features two teams that won’t have much going for them in the remaining weeks of the season. Atlanta has little to gain from this game because they are already out of the playoff picture this season following a strong start. Along with the Liberty and Mystics, Los Angeles is one of three teams vying for the last playoff place. Even though they are now injured, at least this gives the Sparks something to play for. Even so, you have to give the advantage in this game to the visitors when you consider how poorly the Dream has performed defensively and the fact that Los Angeles has won seven straight meetings.
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