Mercury Look to Maintain Momentum on the Road vs. Mystics

The Phoenix Mercury are peaking at the right time, riding a five-game win streak into Thursday night’s matchup against the Washington Mystics.

Proven Picks Backed by Data

First month, just $9

Check Picks Now!

Phoenix (26-14) is 10-3 in its last 13 games and pushing for homecourt advantage in the first round of the WNBA playoffs. Washington (16-25), meanwhile, has dropped seven straight and was officially eliminated from postseason contention after Sunday’s 81-78 loss at Los Angeles.

Check the latest WNBA odds before tip-off.

The Mercury Can Win If…

Phoenix continues its balanced scoring approach. During the streak, Alyssa Thomas, Satou Sabally, Kahleah Copper, and rookie Monique Akoa Makani have all taken turns leading the team in points.

Thomas paced the Mercury with 23 points in their last outing, and Phoenix built a double-digit lead early before closing strong. If the ball movement remains crisp and their defense keeps Washington in check, the Mercury should extend their winning run.

The Mystics Can Win If…

Washington finds scoring consistency behind Kiki Iriafen and Sonia Citron. Iriafen dropped 22 in Sunday’s loss, marking her sixth 20+ point game, while Citron has reached double figures in 36 contests this year — a new WNBA rookie record.

The Mystics’ defense has been their undoing, giving up 14.3 points per game more than they score during their losing streak. To pull the upset, they’ll need to control pace and limit Phoenix’s three-point looks.

Key Betting Trends

• Mercury are 8-2 SU in their last 10 games.
• Mystics are 0-7 SU in their last 7 games.
• Phoenix is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 road contests.
• The Over has hit in 6 of Washington’s last 9 games.

Prediction

Phoenix is the far more motivated team, surging at the perfect time with postseason positioning on the line. Washington has shown flashes offensively, but its defense continues to collapse in crunch time.

Pick: Mercury -6.5
Projected Score: Phoenix 87, Washington 76

Explore more WNBA picks and predictions for tonight’s action.