The Liberty Can Win If Their Core Stays Healthy and Sharp
The New York Liberty finally have everyone back—Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, Nyara Sabally—and they’ve looked better for it. Their 75‑66 win over Washington showcased what a fully intact roster can do: strong defense, solid bench scoring (19 from Emma Meesseman), and reliable double-doubles from Stewart and Jonquel Jones. If the starters play with energy early and maintain defensive discipline, they should control this game from tip‑off.
The Sky Can Win If They Lean Into Youth and Seize Momentum
The Chicago Sky season has been brutal, but there have been flashes. Kamilla Cardoso has been consistent—including a 22‑point, 15‑rebound explosion the last time these teams met. Angel Reese remains a question mark, both health‑ and context‑wise, but if she plays and pushes hard, the Sky could make this more than just a tune‑up for New York.
The Lean
- Pick: Liberty straight up
- Projected Score: Liberty 88, Sky 71
- Best Bet: Under total (≈160 points) — expect New York to lead comfortably, possibly resting some key starters late
We’ll be tracking this game closely in our WNBA picks hub to see where value lies.
Expanded Analysis
This is the first time the Liberty have had their full complement of stars together in a while. That lack has shown in inconsistent results earlier in the season. Now, with Ionescu and Sabally healthy again, plus Jones and Stewart stepping up, the team looks more balanced and capable of both offensive and defensive spikes.
Sky’s Identity Struggles
Chicago’s issues aren’t just wins and losses—they’re about consistency, health, and stability. Reese missing games, off‑court distraction, and injuries have all piled up. Cardoso has been bright, but without supplementary scoring and stable defense, Sky’s vulnerabilities get exposed quickly.
Preview Implications and Motivation
For New York, this is tune‑up time before playoff intensity sets in. They’ll want to build momentum, test second units, and maintain defensive toughness. The Sky, in contrast, are playing out the string—but pride, future rotations, and individual performances (especially from young players) can still matter.
By the time tip‑off approaches, scouting tools and odds will already reflect this. Check our WNBA scores & odds page for late changes and movement.
FAQs
What seed will New York start the playoffs from?
The Liberty are locked into the No. 5 seed in the WNBA playoffs.
Is Angel Reese playing for the Sky?
Reese’s status is uncertain—it depends on health and disciplinary factors. She has missed recent games.
Who’s been Chicago’s most consistent player?
Kamilla Cardoso has shown steady performance all season with solid scoring and rebounding.
What’s a smart betting angle?
Liberty straight up looks safe. Also, under on total points is appealing given Sky’s offensive struggles and likely bench minutes for New York.