The WNBA Playoff Picture: A Closer Look
As we gear up for the 2024 WNBA season, the race for the eighth seed in the postseason bracket seems relatively inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. The New York Liberty have established themselves as the dominant force in the league, maintaining their status as the best team throughout the year. With a remarkable net rating of +12.1 points per 100 possessions, they have outperformed the three teams competing for that final playoff spot by more than 15 points. Consequently, any playoff series against them is expected to be a straightforward challenge for the title contenders.
However, the focus should not solely be on the inevitable outcome; instead, we should celebrate the intriguing journey of the Washington Mystics as they strive to secure that coveted final playoff position. It’s important to remember that the Mystics endured a grueling start to the season, losing an astonishing 12 consecutive games. This unfortunate streak has the potential to redefine expectations, as the 2015 Los Angeles Sparks currently hold the WNBA record for the longest opening losing streak at 0-7 before eventually clinching a playoff berth. While the Sparks’ mark represented 20 percent of their 34-game season, the Mystics surpassed that by going winless for 30 percent of this year’s campaign, yet they have managed to rally and sit in the No. 8 seed with just two games remaining.
This impressive turnaround has been fueled by the Mystics’ resilience in the face of adversity, as they navigated injuries to key players such as Brittney Sykes, Karlie Samuelson, and Shakira Austin, alongside trading away Myisha Hines-Allen. Consequently, this situation has paved the way for increased responsibilities on the court for players like Ariel Atkins, who is currently enjoying the highest assist rate of her career. Additionally, the Mystics have witnessed a remarkable offensive surge from Stefanie Dolson, who has emerged as the league’s second-best high-volume 3-point shooter. The team has also benefitted from crucial minutes contributed by young talents Emily Engstler and Sika Koné, each of whom is already making strides in their WNBA careers.
Miraculously, this confluence of player development and postseason ambition has coalesced into a season marked by growth and excitement. Regardless of whether the Mystics ultimately make the playoffs, they are assured of at least one lottery pick, thanks to a savvy trade executed during the 2023 WNBA Draft.
The competitive landscape for the final playoff spot is shaping up to be a thrilling three-team race involving the Mystics, the Sky, and the Dream. This battle is likely to extend until the final day of the season (Thursday), providing a tantalizing prelude to a postseason that often passes in the blink of an eye. For now, the Washington Mystics find themselves projected within the playoff field of eight. Instead of presenting a traditional ranking this week, let us delve into predictions regarding how the playoffs may unfold, along with essential information to consider for each playoff team as we inch closer to postseason action.
