Dream vs Fever Picks and Predictions — WNBA Playoffs, Sept. 16, 2025
The Atlanta Dream are on the verge of making history as they visit the Indiana Fever in Game 2 of their first-round playoff series Tuesday night.
Atlanta claimed its first playoff win since 2018 on Sunday, beating Indiana 80-68 behind balanced scoring from Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, and Naz Hillmon. With a win, the Dream can advance to the semifinals and capture their first playoff series victory since 2016.
The Fever, meanwhile, must regroup quickly. They played without star Caitlin Clark (season-ending injury) and leaned heavily on Kelsey Mitchell’s 27 points, but only one other player reached double figures.
Dream Can Win If…
- Balanced offense keeps rolling. Four players scored in double figures in Game 1, and Atlanta’s depth gives them multiple ways to attack.
- Defense stays stingy. They held Indiana to its fifth-lowest scoring output of the season. With the Fever thin on scorers, Atlanta’s pressure can dictate the pace.
- Rhyne Howard stays aggressive. The All-Star guard’s 20 points in Game 1 set the tone. Another big night solidifies the Dream’s control.
Fever Can Win If…
- Kelsey Mitchell gets support. Her 27 points weren’t enough with little secondary scoring. Odyssey Sims, NaLyssa Smith, or Lexie Hull must step up.
- They clean up mistakes. Indiana’s turnovers and missed opportunities fueled Atlanta’s transition game. Sharper execution is non-negotiable.
- Defensive urgency rises. The Fever allowed Atlanta to shoot 48%. They must contest more shots and force tougher looks.
Key Betting Trends
Category | Atlanta Dream | Indiana Fever |
---|---|---|
Series Status | Dream lead 1-0 | Fever trail 0-1 |
Last Game | Won 80-68 vs Fever | Lost 80-68 vs Dream |
Road/Home Record | 14-8 Away (best in WNBA) | 11-11 Home |
The Leans
Main Pick: Dream -5.5
Projected Score: Dream 83, Fever 74
- Spread Angle: Atlanta has covered in 7 of its last 9 games. Their depth and defense are too much for a shorthanded Indiana team.
- Total Angle: Under 163.5. Indiana is struggling to score without Clark, and Atlanta’s defense has been consistent.
Best Bet Box
Best Bet: Dream -5.5
Confidence: ★★★★☆
The Dream are closing in on their first playoff series win in nearly a decade. 👉 Today’s expert WNBA picks