Washington Mystics (6-5) vs Chicago Sky (3-7) Preview
When: Tuesday, June 19, at 7 p.m.
Where: Capital One Arena , Washington D.C.
TV: NBCSWA, The U Too
Injury
Mystics: Taylor Hill (Out/ACL),
Sky: Stefanie Dolson (Doubtful/ Tendon), Kahleah Copper (Probable/ Flu), Cheyenne Parker (Probable/ Flu)
Mystics -
83.5 - points per game
84.7 - points against
45.4 - Field goal %
Sky -
77.8 - points per game
86.6 - points against
42.3 - field goal %
Keep an eye on:
Mystics defense – Washington’s defense has slipped the last two and a half weeks, going 1-4 over the span, ranking 10th out of twelve teams in points allowed at 84.7 points per game and dead last in opponents field goal percentage, with 47.1. For perspective, Chicago ranks dead last allowing 86.6 points per game. It’s clear, Washington’s Achilles heel is their defense and it’s especially confusing due to the depth, versatility and athleticism on the roster. Chicago, despite their struggles, bring a formidable perimeter attack that will test the Mystics defense throughout the contest.
Contain Quigley, Vandersloot and Deshields – Most of Chicago’s offensive production comes from three standout guards in Allie Quigley, Courtney Vandersloot and Diamond Deshields. The trio averages nearly 40 points a game at 39.5 points. Quigley and Vandersloot are two of the most efficient guards in the WNBA, with Quigley averaging a team high 15.5 points on 48% shooting from the field, 39% from deep and 86% from the stripe and Vandersloot posting 10.5 points on 48% shooting from the field, 46% from deep and 77% from the stripe and a team high 6.2 assist per game. Add in athletic rookie Deshields, who is second on the team in scoring at 13.5 points and third on the team in rebounds (5.3), and Chicago pose a strong perimeter threat that is capable of dominating a game. If Washington answers the challenge defensively, it should be a smooth path to a win.
