My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Connecticut at 6 pm et on Sunday.

I think this is more of a mismatch than most realize based on current form. The Sun enter this game off a double-digit loss in Seattle on Friday. Their offense has been awful this season and certainly of late. Apart from an outlier performance in a stunning home upset of the Storm two games back, the Sun have been held to 24 or fewer made field goals in three of their last four and five of their last seven games overall. Meanwhile, prior to Friday's contest, in which they allowed Seattle to connect on 29 field goals, they had allowed 30+ made field goals in five straight games. The Sparks have quietly been one of the hottest offensive teams in the league lately, connecting on 29 or more field goals in five of their last six contests. While their defense leaves a lot to be desired, I'm not sure that the Sun, who are at a rest disadvantage, can take advantage here. With this being the first meeting between these non-conference foes this season, I think the oddsmakers are a little light on the Sparks. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Minnesota at 1 pm et on Saturday.

We won with the Sky plus the points in this same matchup in Minnesota last weekend and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with them again in Saturday's rematch. This might be a tough matchup for the Lynx to get up for after they delivered a win and cover in Los Angeles on Thursday. That win avoided a losing streak - something Minnesota hasn't experienced all season. The Sky continue to deliver the cash having won seven straight games ATS. They were in a bit of a tough spot at home against Dallas last time out but still managed to pull away for an 11-point victory. The Sky have shown the ability to stay competitive by playing tough defense, holding five straight and eight of their last 10 opponents to 30 made field goals or fewer. Look for them to do the same on Saturday as they keep the Lynx within arm's reach. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on Seattle minus the points over Connecticut at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Storm were stunned 93-83 in the front half of this home-and-home set on Wednesday. Seattle led that game comfortably by eight points entering the fourth quarter before an epic collapse. Perhaps the letdown was to be expected as the Storm had an eye on returning home from what would have been a successful 3-1 road trip. Instead they'll head back to the Pacific Northwest off a 2-2 trip that did including an 'upset' win over the Liberty in New York. Connecticut had lost 10 games in a row prior to Wednesday's victory. That included a 16-point loss in Seattle back on June 27th. Of note, the Sun dropped that game by a sizeable margin despite shooting well above average, 48% from the field in that contest. With this being the start of a four-game homestand that will take the Storm through the All-Star break, we'll look for them to deliver a decisive revenge-fuelled victory on Friday. Take Seattle (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Chicago at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Sky dropped their second straight game yesterday, 81-79 on the road against the Mystics, but they remain on a red hot 6-0 ATS run. I look for that streak to end on Wednesday as they host the Wings in a difficult back-to-back situation. Dallas couldn't complete the home-and-home series sweep of Phoenix on Monday, dropping a lopsided 102-72 decision. The Wings are still a terrific 6-3 ATS over their last nine games. While they've won just six games this season, five of those victories have come since June 17th. Here, they'll be looking to avenge a pair of earlier losses against Chicago. Those two defeats came back in May, when the Wings were mired in a 2-5 ATS start to the season. Take Dallas (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Golden State and Indiana at 12 pm et on Wednesday.

Both of these teams are coming off 'over' results but I look for a different story to unfold in Indiana on Wednesday afternoon. Golden State show exceptionally well in its 90-81 loss in Atlanta two nights ago. Note that the Valkyries, while giving up 90 points in that contest, continue to play reasonably well defensively. They've limited an incredible 11 straight opponents to fewer than 30 made field goals. On the flip side, we haven't seen they knock down 30+ field goals in consecutive games since June 7th and 9th (they'll be looking to do that here after making good on 30 field goals in Monday's defeat). Indiana has knocked down 31 and 34 field goals in its last two games. The last time it tried to make good on 30+ field goals for a third straight contest it was held to only 23 in an 85-75 home loss to Los Angeles on June 26th. The Fever allowed those same Sparks to connect on 32 field goals in an 89-87 loss on Saturday. Prior to that, the Fever had held its last two foes to just 38 made field goals combined with the 'under' cashing in both of those games. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

The Liberty have fallen on hard times in recent weeks, going just 3-6 SU and 0-8-1 ATS over their last nine games including an 'upset' loss at home against Seattle on Sunday. I look for them to bounce back on Tuesday as they look to deliver a second win and cover in as many tries against Las Vegas this season. New York quite simply had an off shooting day against the Storm on Sunday. The opportunities were there, the Liberty just couldn't take advantage in a 79-70 loss. Las Vegas comes off an 86-68 rout of Connecticut on Sunday. Of note, the Aces have only managed to cover the spread in consecutive games on two occasions this season and are just 2-2 SU and ATS over their last four contests. They got off a whopping 82 field goal attempts back in their season opener against the Liberty but still lost by 14 points. This is a key spot for New York as it looks to get rolling again during its current six-game homestand. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Golden State and Atlanta at 7:30 pm et on Monday.

With this being the first meeting between these teams not only this season but ever, I believe the oddsmakers are having a difficult time setting an accurate total. The Dream check in off three straight 'over' results as their defense has let them down for the most part. This is a nice bounce back spot, however, as while Golden State has been better than expected this season, it remains one of the league's weaker offensive teams. The Valkyries have eclipsed 30 made field goals just once in their last five games. That came in a contest that still stayed 'under' the total against Seattle. The 'under' is 6-1-1 in the Valkyries last eight games overall. Defensively, Golden State has been terrific. You would have to go back 11 games to find the last time it allowed an opponent to connect on 30 or more field goals - that coming way back on June 5th in Phoenix. Atlanta enters riding a three-game 'over' streak, as mentioned earlier, but that matches its longest such streak this season. The last time it posted three straight 'over' results, it's next game reached just 123 total points against Dallas. Expect a defensive tone in Monday's contest. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Minnesota at 7 pm et on Sunday.

We'll grab the generous helping of points with the underdog Sky on Sunday as they look to deliver their fifth straight ATS victory. This will be the first meeting between these two teams this season and I can't help but feel the line is out of whack. Yes, the Lynx have rebounded nicely with consecutive wins and covers since dropping the Commissioner's Cup Final in 'upset' fashion against Indiana last week. I see this as a bit of a letdown spot, however, against a steadily improving Sky squad that can hang with the best of them right now having connected on 30+ field goals in four of their last six contests. Take Chicago (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Las Vegas and Connecticut at 4 pm et on Sunday.

These two teams met on June 25th and the Aces rolled to an 85-59 win in a game that stayed comfortably 'under' the total. I expect a different story to unfold in Sunday's rematch in Connecticut. The Aces had their streak of five straight games scoring more than 80 points snapped in a lopsided 81-54 defeat in Indiana on Thursday. They should bounce back here noting that Connecticut is playing its worst defensive basketball of the season right now having allowed three straight opponents to knock down 30+ field goals. The Aces aren't exactly playing lockdown defense either as they've allowed more than 30 made field goals in four of their last six contests. Note that the pace was there for a higher-scoring affair in the last meeting between these teams as both sides got off 70+ field goal attempts. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Indiana at 7 pm et on Saturday.

We'll grab the points with the Sparks on Saturday as they look to put the Fever on 'upset alert'. Los Angeles has lost consecutive games and is of course mired in a disappointing 2025 campaign. I do like the way this spot sets up for the Sparks, however, as they just won a game here in Indiana less than two weeks ago and catch the Fever in a letdown spot off three straight wins both SU and ATS. Indiana's last two wins have come in 'upset' fashion in the Commissioner's Cup Final against Minnesota and then two nights later at home against Las Vegas. The Fever are still playing without Caitlin Clark and are in uncharted territory riding a three-game winning streak - their longest of the season to date. I expect a down-to-the-wire affair with the Sparks having every opportunity to steal another win in Indiana. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on New York minus the points over Los Angeles at 7 pm et on Thursday.

Liberty bettors are rightfully spooked following seven straight ATS losses. That's an inexplicable run after the defending champions started the campaign 6-3 ATS without suffering consecutive ATS defeats once along the way. Off back-to-back straight-up defeats, we'll call for the Liberty to bounce back on Thursday as they return home for the first time since June 19th. With this being the first matchup between these non-conference opponents this season and given the Liberty's recent struggles, I'm not sure the oddsmakers know exactly how to handle it. The Sparks have been one of the league's worst teams this season and check in 1-5 ATS over their last six contests. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Minnesota at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

This will be the first time we've seen this particular matchup this season and I think the line is out of whack with the Fever catching a generous helping of points. Indiana checks in playing well offensively having connected on more than 30 field goals in five of its last seven games. On the flip side, you would have go go back four games to find the last time Indiana allowed an opponent to knock down 30+ field goals. Minnesota has won back-to-back games including a 102-63 rout of the lowly Sun on Sunday. Still, the Lynx are just 1-1-1 ATS over their last three contests. They're giving up their share of scoring opportunities having yielded 64+ field goal attempts in five straight and 13 of their last 14 games. Look for the Fever to stick around and make things interesting on Tuesday. Take Indiana (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Seattle at 8:30 pm et on Sunday.

The Valkyries have done nothing but impress over the course of their inaugural campaign. While they are coming off an ATS defeat, they won again, outlasting the Sky by five points on Friday. We'll call for them to give the Storm all they can handle on Sunday as well. Seattle checks in off a lopsided victory but that came at home against one of the league's worst teams in the Sun. Look for a down-to-the-wire affair on Sunday in San Francisco and we'll gladly grab all the points we can get with the underdog Valkyries. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Washington at 8 pm et on Saturday.

We'll grab the points with Dallas, even in a tough back-to-back situation on Saturday. The Wings dropped a close game against Indiana last night. That was a clear result of the Fever shooting the lights out. I don't expect Washington to do the same in this spot. Note that the Mystics have won a season-high three straight games SU and two in a row ATS. That includes an 'upset' victory in Las Vegas two nights ago. We'll call for a letdown here as the Wings avoid a second straight loss. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Golden State at 10 pm et on Friday.

This will be the first ever meeting between the Sky and Valkyries and I believe the line is out of whack. Yes, Golden State has reeled off three straight ATS victories and checks in 6-1 ATS over its last seven games. I'm just not convinced the Valkyries are well-suited to a 'favorite' role at this point. Chicago comes off an 'upset' win at home against Los Angeles on Tuesday. That marked the Sky's second straight ATS victory. They still have a long way to go as they work their way back to respectability but we have seen some positive signs lately as they've knocked down 30+ field goals in three of their last four games. I think they can hang with the Valkyries here. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Indiana and Dallas at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

With the uncertainty surrounding Caitlin Clark's injury status and both teams coming off 'under' results, we're working with a reasonably low total in Friday's clash in Dallas. We'll back the 'over' as I like Indiana's chances of bouncing back following last night's 'upset' home loss against Los Angeles but also question whether the Fever can turn things around defensively having allowed nine of their last 11 opponents to connect on 29 or more field goals. Dallas has drawn a favorable schedule lately in terms of offensively capable opponents and has thrived defensively as a result. I do think the Wings are in for a challenge here, however, as these two teams meet for the first time this season. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Los Angeles and Indiana at 7 pm et on Thursday.

I like the way this game sets up as a lower-scoring affair than expected as the Sparks look to snap their four-game losing streak and the Fever return home on just one day of rest following a three-game western road swing. While Indiana's offense has come around, even with Caitlin Clark mired in a shooting slump, its defense needs to right the ship in order to continue to win games. This is a fine bounce-back spot in that regard as they look to slow what has been an uneven Sparks offense. Los Angeles did knock down 32 field goals in a loss to Chicago two nights ago but had been held to 24 or less made field goals in three straight games prior to that. Los Angeles is in desperate need of a defensive turnaround having allowed four straight opponents to knock down 30+ field goals. I do think this is a favorable spot given the Fever's quick turnaround following a road trip. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Golden State at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Liberty opened their current road trip with an 89-79 loss in Seattle on Sunday, perhaps caught flat-footed after Sabrina Ionescu was a late scratch for that contest. That marked the Liberty's second straight defeat SU and fourth in a row ATS. I look for them to end their slide on Wednesday as they head to San Francisco to take on the Valkyries. Keep in mind, New York is already 2-0 against Golden State this season, winning back-to-back games at home back in late May. The Valkyries were competitive in the second of those contests but only after losing the first by 28 points. Golden State enters this game riding a two-game winning streak both SU and ATS. The opposition has shot incredibly poorly against the Valkyries but they'll undoubtedly have their hands full against one of the league's best offensive teams on Wednesday. Look for the Liberty to bounce back in convincing fashion. Take New York (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Seattle at 10 pm et on Tuesday. 

The Fever have dropped their last two games SU and three in a row ATS entering Tuesday's contest in Seattle. We'll call for Indiana to bounce back in this spot after opening its current road trip with back-to-back defeats. Seattle is in a fairly obvious letdown situation after three straight wins and covers including an impressive 89-79 home win over the Liberty - arguably the league's best team - on Sunday. I like the fact that the Fever offense did get on track even in a losing effort in Las Vegas on Sunday (they shot 34-of-70 from the field). Here, it will be up to Indiana's defense to pick it up, noting that it comes off consecutive games in which it allowed 30+ made field goals. The last two times that has happened, the Fever have responded favorably in their next game, winning by 27 points in Chicago and 17 points at home against Connecticut. Seattle has made good on 30+ field goals in three straight games. The only other time that happened this season it went on to lose its next game 76-70 in 'upset' fashion at Golden State. Take Indiana (10*).

My selection is on Washington plus the points over Minnesota at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the underdog Mystics at home against the Lynx on Tuesday. Minnesota comes off three straight wins both SU and ATS but all three of those victories came at home and two of them came against one of the league's most disappointing teams, the Los Angeles Sparks. While the Lynx have played well defensively, they do give up their share of opportunities and I'm confident Washington can take advantage. Note that the Mystics have been 'filling it up' lately, knocking down 28 or more field goals in six of their last seven games. They've been one of the league's better bets lately, going 4-2 ATS over their last six contests but do check in off an ATS loss (but SU victory) against Dallas on Sunday. Note that the Mystics have dropped the cash in consecutive games just once this season with that two-game ATS skid coming back in late May-early June. Meanwhile, Minnesota is entering uncharted territory as it rides a season-high three-game ATS winning streak. I think the Lynx are laying too many points in this spot. Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on New York moneyline over Seattle at 7 pm et on Sunday.

We'll back the Liberty on the moneyline on Sunday as they look to rebound following an 'upset' loss at home against the Mercury. While I do like New York to win this game, we're taking the moneyline route as we've already seen that it has a knack for winning SU but failing to cover ATS. Note that the Liberty have posted four such wins this season. The Storm are certainly a capable foe having won five of their last six games. This is a tough spot, however, returning home from a successful three-game road trip that saw them win their last two games SU and ATS (against inferior opponents to the one they'll face on Sunday). Take New York moneyline (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Minnesota and Los Angeles at 8 pm et on Saturday.

We'll back the 'over' as the Sparks and Lynx meet for the third time this season on Saturday in Minnesota. The 'over' has already cashed in the first two matchups between these two teams and I'm anticipating more of the same on Saturday. The Sparks have played 'matador-like' defense this season and have gotten even worse lately, allowing four of their last five opponents to knock down more than 30 field goals and their last two to connect on a whopping 41 and 39 field goals, respectively. Offensively, Los Angeles will need to rebound here after making good on just 21-of-64 field goal attempts in Tuesday's 98-67 loss at home against Seattle. While the Lynx are a terrific defensive team, I can't help but feel a letdown could be in order considering they've already defeated the Sparks by double-digits twice this season and check in off consecutive wins (and covers) at home. Despite the recent lopsided victories, the Lynx have kept their foot on the gas, hoisting up 72 and 76 field goal attempts in those two contests. There's little reason to believe the Sparks defense can serve as a speedbump here. Take the over (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Phoenix and Chicago at 1 pm et on Saturday.

The Mercury stretched their winning streak to four games with a stunning 'upset' victory in New York two nights ago. That also marked their second straight 'over' result. We'll call for a change of pace here and back the 'under' as Phoenix wraps up its four-game road trip in Chicago. While the Mercury did put up 89 points in Thursday's victory, it actually shot just under 42% from the field. You would have to go back four games to find the last time Phoenix connected on more than 30 field goals. While Chicago has been one of the league's worst teams this season, it has played better defense of late, holding two straight and four of its last six foes to fewer than 30 made field goals. The Sky offense remains a mess. Yes, they knocked down 30 field goals in a home loss to the Mystics last time out but they haven't eclipsed that number since May 29th against Dallas. In fact, the 'under' has cashed in each of Chicago's last five games, a streak I expect to see continue here. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on Dallas minus the points over Connecticut at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

The Sun have done a nice job covering the spread in consecutive games against Indiana and Phoenix but I look for them to fall short against the Wings on Friday. Keep in mind, Dallas took the first meeting between these two teams this season by 22 points on this same floor back on May 27th. Dallas enters this contest playing well, off back-to-back ATS victories and having connected on 29 or more field goals in five of its last six games. That's a far cry from Connecticut which has made good on 26 or fewer field goals in four straight games. The Sun were fortunate that the Mercury had an off shooting night last time out but they still lost that game by eight points at home. You have to figure the Sun have one eye on a long road trip that begins on Sunday against Golden State. We'll lay the points with the visiting Wings. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Indiana and Golden State at 10 pm et on Thursday.

I expect the Fever to have their way offensively with the expansion Valkyries as these two teams meet for the first time on Thursday night. With that being said, Golden State doesn't figure to roll over in this underdog spot. The Valkyries had their three-game winning streak snapped in an 80-71 loss in Dallas two nights ago but should rebound with a good effort here. Consider that three of Golden State's best offensive performances of the season have come in its last four contests. In its last two home games it staged upset wins over Las Vegas and Seattle, knocking down 34-of-71 field goals against the Aces and 28-of-58 against the Storm. The Fever did hold a bad Connecticut offense in check last time out but I'm not sure a repeat performance can be counted on away from home on Thursday. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Indiana at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

This is a tricky spot for the Fever as they come off a big revenge-fuelled 'upset' win at home against the Liberty on Saturday - in a game where they welcomed Caitlin Clark and Sophia Cunningham back to the lineup - and look ahead to a three-game road trip out west that begins on Thursday at Golden State. Connecticut is coming off an 'upset' defeat at home against Chicago on Sunday. The Sun had been playing better prior to their current two-game slide as they were 2-1 SU and ATS in their three previous contests including an outright win here in Indiana as double-digit underdogs on May 30th. Of note, while Indiana got a major boost offensively with the return of Clark on Saturday, the Fever have actually struggled defensively in recent games, allowing five of their last six opponents to knock down 30+ field goals. That opens the door for a closer-than-expected affair on Tuesday. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Atlanta at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

The Liberty got caught flat-footed in the second half against the Fever on Saturday and paid the price in a 102-88 'upset' loss. We'll call for the defending champions to bounce back as they return home to host the red hot Dream on Tuesday. Atlanta has reeled off three straight wins both SU and ATS but those came at home against an Indiana team without Caitlin Clark, the lowly Chicago Sky and on the road against a reeling Mystics squad. Here, Atlanta makes the trip to New York for a 'measuring stick' game against one of, if not the league's best team. Despite the loss on Saturday, New York continues to perform well offensively, connecting on 30+ field goals in three of its last four games. Note that the Liberty had held six straight and eight of nine opponents this season to fewer than 30 made field goals before yielding 37 in Saturday's setback. Take New York (8*).

Total of the Week. My selection is on the 'under' between Phoenix and Las Vegas at 6 pm et on Sunday.

Both of these teams enter this game riding three-game 'over' streaks but I look for a different story to unfold as they match up on Sunday. Las Vegas has been one of the league's worst offensive teams this season and A'ja Wilson remains questionable to play on Sunday as she works through concussion protocol. Note that the Aces have connected on fewer than 30 field goals in all but one of their nine games to date this season. Las Vegas will undoubtedly be focused on rectifying its poor defensive play after allowing three straight opponents to connect on 33 or more field goals. Seattle comes off a strong offensive effort in a win and cover against Dallas. Note that the Mercury have been relatively inconsistent offensively this season, however, having yet to connect on 30+ field goals in consecutive games. We can expect their best defensive effort here as they check in off three full days' rest. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on Indiana plus the points over New York at 3 pm et on Saturday.

Indiana is expected to get a major boost with the return of both Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham on Saturday. The Fever turned in one of their worst performances of the season last time out as they were blown out in Atlanta. That snapped a two-game SU and ATS winning streak. They'll play with revenge on Saturday after dropping a narrow two-point decision at home against New York back on May 24th. The Liberty are still undefeated on the season and check in off an easy 85-66 win at home against the lowly Sky earlier this week. Look for the Fever to give the Liberty all they can handle on Saturday afternoon. Take Indiana (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Atlanta at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

We won with the Dream on Tuesday as they pulled away for a 19-point win over the Fever. We'll go the other way and fade Atlanta on Friday as it stays at home to host Chicago. The Sky check in off consecutive losses both SU and ATS. Their most recent defeat came against arguably the league's best team in New York on Tuesday. I look for them to rebound here as they catch the Dream glancing ahead at a two-game road trip that will take them to Washington and New York on Sunday and Tuesday. After allowing five straight opponents to connect on more than 30 field goals to open the campaign, the Sky have held two of their last three foes to exactly 27 made field goals. Meanwhile, the Dream have allowed three of their last four and seven of their nine opponents this season to knock down 30+ field goals. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Las Vegas at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the reeling Sparks as they look to put the Aces on 'upset alert' on Wednesday night. Los Angeles has lost four of its last five games and checks in off an 'upset' defeat at home against Golden State on Monday. Oddly enough, Las Vegas is also off an 'upset' loss against the upstart Valkyries. While the Aces are a respectable 4-3 on the campaign, I'm concerned by the fact that their offense has yet to get rolling, knocking down fewer than 30 field goals in all but one of their games (that did come against the Sparks in an Aces win Los Angeles will look to avenge on Wednesday). On the flip side, Las Vegas has allowed its last four opponents to make good on 42, 31, 28 and 34 field goals. The Sparks are capable of hanging tough with an offense that has connected on 30 or more field goals in four of their last six games. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Atlanta minus the points over Indiana at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The Fever are coming off back-to-back wins and covers including a 79-52 dismantling of the Sky in Chicago on Saturday. I still think Indiana is limited in what it can do offensively in the absence of Caitlin Clark. Note that the Fever have gotten off exactly 59 field goal attempts in three straight games. They've been fortunate to shoot exceptionally well in all three of those contests. While Atlanta has struggled defensively this season, I see this as a 'get right' spot at home off Friday's stunning 84-76 upset defeat in Connecticut. Prior to that loss the Dream had won four games in a row both SU and ATS. Of note, the straight-up winner has covered the spread in each of Atlanta's eight games to date this season. While Indiana has had to make the most of limited shot volume without Clark, Atlanta has hoisted up 68 or more field goal attempts in seven of eight games this season with a low-water mark of 64 (in a game it scored 88 points and won and covered in Los Angeles). Look for the Dream to overwhelm the Fever offensively and improve to 2-1 in this series this season on Tuesday. Take Atlanta (8*).

Western Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Minnesota and Dallas at 4 pm et on Sunday.

The first meeting between these two teams totalled just 166 points in a narrow Minnesota victory back on May 21st. I don't think enough of an adjustment has been made to the total as the Wings shot poorly in that contest but do enter this rematch 'filling it up' offensively even if the wins haven't followed. Dallas has made good on 30+ field goals in two straight and five of its last six games overall. On the flip side, the Wings have played matador-like defense, allowing four straight opponents to connect on 30+ field goals. That spells trouble as they prepare to host a Lynx squad that has knocked down 30+ field goals in three of its last four games and despite not playing at a particularly fast pace has scored 86 and 88 points over its last two contests. The door is wide open for a high-scoring affair in Dallas on Sunday. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on Washington minus the points over Connecticut at 3 pm et on Sunday.

The Mystics have faced an absolutely brutal schedule this season and a result they check in 3-6 on the campaign. The schedule does star to ease up beginning with Sunday's matchup with 2-6 Connecticut. The Sun check in off a big upset win at home against Atlanta but that came on the heels of a 100-52 beatdown in New York. Note that the Sun shot a blistering 33-for-66 from the field last time out, a performance they're unlikely to duplicate here. Washington has yet to allow an opponent knock down more than 30 field goals in a game this season (only two of its nine opponents have connected on exactly 30). Off an ATS cover but eight-point loss at home against New York three nights ago, we'll call for the Mystics to bounce back in a big way on Sunday. Take Washington (8*).

Eastern Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Indiana and Chicago at 8 pm et on Saturday.

The first meeting between these two teams produced just 151 total points easily staying 'under' the closing total of 169.5. I don't think we're seeing nearly enough of an adjustment to the total in this rematch with the Fever missing a number of key contributors including Caitlin Clark. Indiana does come off a win and cover against Washington but what's most notable is the way it has slowed things down lately, hoisting up fewer than 60 field goal attempts while also holding the opposition to 60 or fewer field goal attempts in consecutive games. The Fever's last two opponents have shot the lights out but now they draw one of the worst shooting teams in the league in Chicago. The Sky do check in off consecutive games in which they scored 94+ points but both of those came against Dallas - one of the league's worst defensive teams. Expect this to be more of a slugfest. Take the under (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Dallas at 9:30 pm et on Friday.

The Sparks have really struggled out of the gate so far this season, going 2-6 and currently ride a three-game SU and ATS losing streak. They had an excellent opportunity to stop their slide at home against Phoenix last Sunday but they simply couldn't make good on their scoring opportunities in a narrow defeat. In that game, the Sparks got off 71 field goal attempts compared to the Mercury's 64 but could only connect on 26 of them. Keep in mind, prior to that contest, Los Angeles had knocked down 30+ field goals in three straight games so we know its offense is capable. Dallas is just 1-7 on the season but does come off an ATS victory in Seattle earlier this week. This will mark Dallas' seventh games in as many cities going back to May 21st. You could argue that the Wings have faced the league's toughest schedule to this point travel-wise and I don't think it serves them well as they return home for this date with the rested Sparks on Friday. Note that the Wings are 0-3 SU and ATS at home this season, losing all three of those games by at least eight points. Take Los Angeles (10*).

My selection is on Phoenix minus the points over Golden State at 10 pm et on Thursday.

We successfully faded the Mercury in their 88-65 loss in Minnesota two nights ago but we'll go the other way and back Phoenix as it returns home to host reeling Golden State on Thursday. The expansion Valkyries have lost three games in a row following a surprising 2-1 start to the campaign. They're playing with very little margin for error as they've made good on fewer than 30 field goals in all six games to date this season. With their defense suddenly sagging (they've allowed two of their last three foes to knock down 30+ field goals), I look for them to fall well short against the Mercury on Thursday. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Phoenix at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

We'll lay the points with the Lynx and fade the Mercury in this spot as Phoenix comes off its second win in as many tries against the Sparks on Sunday. Phoenix is off to a 5-2 start to the campaign and checks in off consecutive ATS victories but is actually just 2-3-1 ATS over its last six contests. The Lynx remain undefeated at 7-0 on the season. They're a miserable 0-4-1 ATS over their last five games but I'm anticipating a big performance here ahead of a four-day layoff that leads into a two-game road trip. The Mercury figure to have one eye on a return home to begin a three-game homestand on Thursday. Phoenix did cover the spread in a 74-71 loss in the first meeting between these teams this season. As we know, revenge is a dish best served at home but the Mercury won't have the benefit of hosting the Lynx here. Minnesota rolls. Take Minnesota (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over New York at 7 pm et on Thursday.

The Valkyries get a quick revenge spot against the Liberty on Thursday after they were drilled by 28 points two nights ago. While Golden State projects as one of the league's worst teams in its inaugural season, we have seen some positive flashes in the early going. For the Liberty, this is a fairly obvious flat spot before they head to Washington for a difficult back-to-back situation against the Mystics tomorrow night. Expect New York to save a little in reserve and for this game to ultimately be closer than most anticipate. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Seattle at 6 pm et on Sunday.

Seattle opened the season with an ugly 22-point loss in Phoenix but has since rebounded with consecutive wins both SU and ATS, including most recently a successful revenge date with the Mercury. We'll call for a letdown from the Storm on Sunday as they host a Las Vegas team that has yet to play to its potential despite its 2-1 record. The Aces are just 1-2 ATS and check in off a scare at home against an upstart Mystics team on Friday. While the Storm will head on the road for a date with Minnesota on Tuesday, the Aces will be idle until they host the Sparks on Saturday. We'll lay the points with Las Vegas. Take Las Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Golden State at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Valkyries are coming off their first-ever WNBA victory as they defeated the Mystics in upset fashion at home two nights ago. Keep in mind, they dropped their season-opener by 17 points against the same Sparks squad they'll face on Friday. Los Angeles figures to be in a foul mood coming off consecutive losses. The Sparks couldn't keep up with a red hot Mercury squad two nights ago as Phoenix improved to 2-0 with an 89-86 win at home. Los Angeles should find the going much easier against a Valkyries team that has knocked down just 36% and 32% of its field goal attempts over its first two contests. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Indiana minus the points over Atlanta at 7:30 pm et on Thursday.

The Dream stunned the Fever 91-90 two nights ago at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indiana. We'll call for the Fever to return the favor as the scene shifts to Atlanta for a quick rematch between these Eastern Conference foes on Thursday. Atlanta played a perfect road game on Tuesday, jumping ahead early and forcing Indiana to expend a ton of energy trying to make the comeback in the second half. While the Fever ultimately fell short, the fact that they were even able to stay in the game and ultimately take it down to the wire was commendable. While Indiana is bubbling with potential this season, there are going to be flat spots on the schedule, and Tuesday's contest proved to be one of those after posting a runaway win over Chicago in its season-opener on the weekend. The Dream made plenty of offseason changes and early returns have been mixed (prior to Tuesday's upset win they dropped a 94-90 decision in their season-opener in Washington). I don't believe these two teams are on the same level, despite what we saw two nights ago. Take Indiana (10*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Washington at 1 pm et on Sunday.

The Mystics pulled off an 'upset' win at home against Atlanta to open its campaign on Friday. Washington shot a blistering 31-for-61 in that game. The Dream actually got off a whopping 74 field goal attempts but could only connect on 30 and that proved to be the difference in a narrow 94-90 Mystics win.

While expectations are extremely low for the rebuilding Sun this season, I do look for them to bring their 'A' game in their home opener, ahead of a more difficult matchup against Las Vegas on Tuesday. We'll grab all the points we can get. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Dallas at 7:30 pm ET on Friday.

All eyes will be on the much-anticipated debut of top overall pick Paige Bueckers, but the reality is that her presence doesn’t patch up Dallas’ long-standing defensive shortcomings. The Wings were one of the worst defensive teams in the WNBA last season, and there's little to suggest that a rookie—no matter how talented—will transform them overnight. Dallas gave up 112 points in their only preseason game against Las Vegas, and that came with A’ja Wilson playing just 21 minutes and shooting a modest 7-for-17 from the floor. That poor showing underlines the lack of defensive cohesion that continues to plague this team.

Meanwhile, Minnesota comes into this season motivated, after pushing the Liberty to the brink in last year’s WNBA Finals. The Lynx return with a strong core and a well-balanced attack that should immediately take advantage of Dallas’ defensive lapses. This is a veteran group that thrives on execution and should expose the Wings' inexperience and issues on the defensive end from the opening tip. While the media hype might be centered on Bueckers, the on-court reality heavily favors the Lynx.

Take Minnesota.

My selection is on New York minus the points over Minnesota at 8 pm et on Sunday.

A convincing win is certainly well within the realm of possibility for the Liberty after we saw them deliver just that the last time they hosted the Lynx in Game 2 of this series. In that situation, New York was coming off a close loss, which is the case here as well. While these two teams have been involved in their share of tightly-contested battles all season with Minnesota gaining the upper hand at times, I still believe New York has the considerable talent edge and with home court on its side in this winner-take-all game, I'm willing to lay the points. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on New York plus the points over Las Vegas at 9:30 pm et on Friday.

New York has quite simply outclassed Las Vegas at every turn this season and certainly in the first two games of this series. Note that New York is 16-5 SU and 15-6 ATS on the road this season so there's no reason to expect any sort of let up on Friday. The Aces have taken plenty of money in the betting marketplace since this line opened and as a result we've afforded ourselves another point with the Liberty. I'm not sure that we'll need it as I look for New York to go on the road and take a commanding 3-0 series lead on Friday. Of note, the Aces are just 4-6 ATS at home against winning opponents this season. Take New York (8*).

Playoff Game of the Year. My selection is on Las Vegas plus the points over New York at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The Aces are now 0-3 against the Liberty this season after Sunday's 10-point loss in New York. The opener of this series fizzled as New York extended a double-digit halftime lead and never looked back. I look for Las Vegas to answer back on Tuesday.

There's plenty of room for improvement from the Aces. They actually got off a whopping 67 field goal attempts including 25 from beyond the arc but shot poorly and didn't do a good enough job on the boards. Keep in mind, prior to that contest, the Aces had reeled off seven straight wins with 11 victories in their last 12 contests. I don't expect them to get rattled by Sunday's setback.

The Liberty aren't likely to shoot the lights out again the way they did on Sunday (30-for-60). Nor do I anticipate them having as decisive of an edge in terms of trips to the free throw line. We'll grab all the points we can get with Las Vegas but hopefully won't need them. Take Las Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Las Vegas at 10:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The Storm let the Aces off the hook in the opener of this series on Sunday. They appeared poised to grab a 1-0 series lead entering the fourth quarter. That's when it all fell apart for Seattle as it scored just two, yes two, fourth quarter points in an eventual 11-point defeat. Now it will be up to the Storm to make the necessary adjustments prior to Game 2, noting that they allowed Las Vegas to shoot 44% from the field including 38% from three-point range in the series-opener. I liked the fact that Seattle was right there in terms of scoring opportunities in Game 1 and I'm expect it to be more efficient in Game 2 (it shot 37% from the field an a miserable 25% from three-point range on Sunday). The Aces have now won six games in a row but they've yet to notch seven consecutive victories this season (the last time they tried they were upset 98-93 by the Sparks on July 5th). Take Seattle (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Connecticut at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Sparks are having a miserable season, posting just seven wins in 35 games. They enter Tuesday's rematch with the Sun (Connecticut won by 12 on Sunday) on the heels of four straight losses. We'll back Los Angeles in this spot, however, as I feel they're catching too many points against a Connecticut team that has won by double-digits just twice in its last 10 contests. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Atlanta at 10 pm et on Friday.

This was already going to be an important return home for the Aces having sputtered since the Olympic break. It takes on added significance after they crumbled late in a loss in Dallas last time out.

At 10-20 overall including a 4-10 mark on the road, the Dream are a team that the Aces can and should take care of. I like the way the spot sets up for Las Vegas noting that Atlanta will be playing its third game in three different cities since Monday. While Atlanta has been playing competitive basketball lately, it still enters riding a three-game slide and I don't see this as the spot for it to rebound against an Aces squad that will surely be in an unforgiving mood. Take Las Vegas (8*).

Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Dallas at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

The Aces have fallen on hard times from a poinstpread perspective. At least they managed to snap their two-game slide with a buzzer-beating win in Chicago on Sunday. That did their backers no favors as they let a late double-digit lead slip away in that contest. They enter Tuesday's contest in Dallas riding a three-game ATS losing skid.

I like the way this game sets up for Las Vegas. After being frustrated most of the game against a steadily-improving Sky defense, the Aces should be able to get loose against an awful Wings defense on Tuesday. Dallas needed a 40-point fourth quarter eruption to outlast a bad Sparks squad by a 113-110 score on Sunday. That wasn't enough to earn the cover.

This hasn't been a good matchup for Dallas this season as Las Vegas has taken the first two meetings by 14 and 19 points. This is a key spot for the Aces as they look to secure a winning road trip before returning home to host Atlanta on Friday. When Las Vegas puts it all together it is one of the league's best teams - we simply haven't seen it much lately. I did like what I saw from the Aces in the fourth quarter in Chicago on Sunday - at least until the final three minutes. Look for Las Vegas to make a point to leave little doubt on Tuesday in Dallas. Take Las Vegas (10*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Monday.

The Liberty turned in one of their worst performances of the season in a 72-64 home loss against Connecticut on Saturday. I look for them to bounce back on Monday as they head out on the road to take on the Mercury in Phoenix.

Phoenix has been all over the map since returning from the Olympic break. The Mercury have played in four different cities and return home following a hard-fought split in a two-game set in Atlanta. Phoenix has managed to win three of five games since the break but those three victories came against two of the Eastern Conference's weaker teams in Chicago and Atlanta. The Mercury will face a much stiffer challenge against an elite Liberty squad coming off a loss.

This will be the rubber match in this series after the home side won each of the first two matchups. I like the advantage the Liberty have here as they travel for the first time in over a week. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Chicago at 12 noon et on Sunday.

The Aces ran into the league's hottest team - the Lynx - over the last two games and enter Sunday's matinee affair in Chicago in the midst of a rare losing streak.

Chicago checks in having gone 1-3 since returning from the Olympic break.

The Sky actually upset the Aces in Las Vegas in the final game prior to the break so you can be sure this is a game Las Vegas has had circled on its calendar. Keep in mind, the Aces won the previous matchup here in Chicago by double-digits back in June. Take Las Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Minnesota at 9:30 pm et on Friday.

The Aces dropped their second straight meeting with the Lynx two nights ago in Las Vegas. The road team is now 3-0 in this series this season. I look for that trend to continue on Friday night in Minnesota.

Las Vegas has come out of the Olympic break misfiring but it remains in the thick of the Western Conference race, just 2.5 games behind the first-place Lynx. Note that the Aces have actually played better on the road compared to at home this season, going 8-3 in the visitors role but just 9-7 at home.

While the Aces have an off day on Saturday before continuing their road trip in Chicago on Sunday, the Lynx will be right back on the floor on Saturday, hosting Caitlin Clark and the Fever. I simply feel Las Vegas will want this one a little more. Take Las Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over New York at 7 pm et on Thursday.

New York has reeled off seven straight wins including a 94-74 rout of Dallas two nights ago. That game was essentially decided on a pair of Liberty runs, 16-5 in the first quarter and 14-0 in the fourth. There's obviously a wide talent gap between these two teams but that's being reflected in the line. I believe the Wings are catching too many points in this quick revenge spot.

For the Liberty, this game offers an opportunity to perhaps ease off the gas a little (and still earn a win) before a much tougher contest awaits on Saturday (home game against Connecticut). Meanwhile, the Wings will be looking to salvage something from their two-game stop in Brooklyn.

On a positive note for Dallas, it welcomed Satou Sabally to the lineup for the first time this season following the Olympic break and she hasn't disappointed, pouring in 44 points while adding 13 rebounds and 11 assists in two games. Look for the Wings to make a game of it on Thursday. Take Dallas (8*).

Western Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Minnesota at 9:30 pm et on Wednesday.

The Aces certainly haven't forgotten a 100-86 beatdown they suffered at the hands of the Lynx on this floor back in early June. Las Vegas has only managed to earn a split on its current homestand, upping the importance of this showdown with first-place Minnesota. The Lynx check in off consecutive wins coming out of the Olympic break but both of those victories came against the lowly Mystics.

Keep in mind, we know the Aces are capable of handling the Lynx. Las Vegas secured an 80-66 victory in the Twin Cities in the first meeting between these two teams this season. This will serve as the front-end of a home-and-home series.

I'm not sure I'm buying the Lynx as the best team in the West, especially when you consider how things have gone since the beginning of July. Minnesota is riding a three-game winning streak but just 5-4 SU over its last nine games. It seems that the Lynx have been getting tripped up every time they've stepped up in class lately, including losses to the Liberty, Sun and Storm. Yes, the Lynx did win the Commissioner's Cup earlier in the season thanks to an impressive Championship Game win over New York. All that's done is serve to put a bullseye on their back, however.

This will be one of only three home games for the Aces between now and September 13th. Look for them to make the most of the opportunity. Take Las Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Seattle minus the points over Washington at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

Off consecutive losses coming out of the Olympic break, this figures to be a 'leave it all on the floor' type of game for the Storm as they won't play again until next Monday (back at home against the same Mystics).

Washington has dropped four straight and eight of its last 10 games overall. The Mystics are going nowhere with a 6-21 record on the season. Home court advantage has been non-existent as they check in on a five-game losing streak as hosts, with their last four defeats coming by 16, 9, 12 and 11 points.

The most recent matchup between these two teams this season was no contest as Seattle rolled to a 101-69 victory in the Pacific Northwest. Of note, Karlie Samuelson led the Mystics in scoring on that night but she won't play on Tuesday after injuring her knee on Sunday. Take Seattle (8*).

My selection is on Connecticut minus the points over Atlanta at 3 pm et on Sunday.

Connecticut came storming out of the gates following the Olympic break, scoring 109 points in a rout of Dallas on Friday night. I look for the Sun to keep it rolling on Sunday as they draw another favorable road matchup against Atlanta on Sunday.

The Dream did stage an 83-81 upset win over Seattle two nights ago. Still, Atlanta is just 8-17 this season, including a 4-8 mark at home. While the Sun are one of the league's best defensive teams, the Dream rank 12th in the league in points per game. Look for Connecticut to roll. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Indiana at 7:30 pm et on Wednesday.

Dallas let Los Angeles off the hook on Sunday as it blew a fourth quarter lead in an eventual 87-81 loss. If any team is in desperate need of a win prior to the Olympic break, it's the Wings as they're off to a miserable 5-19 start to the season.

Indiana checks in off consecutive wins but is still just 5-9 on the road this season. While the Fever have certainly been playing much better since getting off to a miserable 1-8 start this season, I'm not convinced they should be laying this many points on the road, especially in a clear letdown spot off Sunday's road win over the Lynx. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Washington plus the points over Phoenix at 11:30 am et on Tuesday.

The Mystics have gone 6-6 over their last 12 games despite facing an absolutely brutal schedule. Their last seven contests have come at home against Connecticut and Las Vegas, on the road against Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Minnesota and Indiana in succession and then back at home against Las Vegas. The fact that they've hung in there (only one loss over that stretch was a true blowout) is a testament to their character.

Here, Washington has the opportunity to head into the Olympic break on a high note. Phoenix is coming off a 27-point rout at the hands of Connecticut on Sunday - its second straight loss to open this road trip. The Mercury are just 4-5 over their last nine games and those four wins came against two struggling opponents in the Wings and Sparks (two wins against each).

The last time these two teams met, Phoenix eked out a three-point victory at home back on May 23rd. We'll back the Mystics to gain an ounce of revenge in this early start matchup on Tuesday. Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on Connecticut minus the points over Phoenix at 1 pm et on Sunday.

The Mercury are limping toward the Olympic break with Diana Taurasi and Britney Griner among those dealing with injuries. Regardless who is able to play on Sunday, I look for Connecticut to continue its dominance over Phoenix.

The Sun have taken both previous meetings between these two teams this season and neither game was particularly close.

Connecticut has been idle since Wednesday, when it dropped a hard-fought 71-68 decision at home against New York. That loss snapped a three-game winning streak. With this game, followed by a rematch with the Liberty on deck in Brooklyn on Tuesday to wrap up pre-Olympic break action, I look for the Sun to put their best foot forward on Sunday afternoon. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Chicago at 7 pm et on Thursday.

Both of these teams came away victorious yesterday afternoon. I like New York's chances of keeping it rolling as it returns home to host Chicago on Thursday.

Angel Reese kept her double-double streak alive thanks to a foul in the closing seconds of yesterday's contest. She's been the story for the Sky so far this season and while they've been playing better lately, they're still just 9-12 overall.

New York has played with a chip on its shoulder all season long and certainly since losing the Commissioner's Cup against Minnesota back on June 25th. The Liberty are 10-1 at home this season, although Thursday's game will be played at Barclay's Center in Brooklyn. Regardless, I expect New York to improve to 13-2 against Eastern Conference foes with a decisive victory. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Las Vegas and Seattle at 3 pm et on Wednesday.

The Aces are clicking right now, winners of seven of their last eight games and fresh off a 104-point explosion in a rout of Dallas on Sunday. I don't expect the Storm to stand in their way defensively but I do think Seattle can put up a fight with a surging offense of its own on Wednesday afternoon.

The Storm shook off a poor shooting performance in the first half to rally for a win (and cover) against Chicago on Sunday. Seattle has now won five of its last six games, scoring 89, 97, 95, 88 and 84 points in its last five contests.

The last time these two teams met back on June 19th, they combined to score 177 points in Las Vegas. There's no real mathematics or clever angles at play here, I simply feel the oddsmakers have set this total too low. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Minnesota at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Sparks will be looking to avenge a pair of earlier losses to the Lynx on Tuesday. I like their chances of staying inside the number against a Minnesota squad that has been sputtering since winning the Commissioner's Cup on June 25th.

The Lynx are 2-3 straight-up since that victory over the Liberty. They survived against the Mystics on Saturday, snapping a two-game skid in the process. Note that they're likely to be without Napheesa Collier - their best offensive player - for a second straight game on Tuesday. The last time they faced the Sparks on June 14th (at home) they won by five points on the strength of a 30-point performance from Collier.

Los Angeles dropped a six-point decision at home against Phoenix on Sunday. This is a big spot for the Sparks as they won't take the floor again until Saturday when they head to Dallas to face the Wings. In Sunday's defeat, Sparks guard Aari McDonald shot 1-for-10 from the field. Inconsistency has plagued her over the course of her WNBA career. Keep in mind, she poured in 23 points in a 98-93 upset win over Las Vegas just two games back. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Seattle minus the points over Chicago at 6 pm et on Sunday.

The Sky took the opener of this two-game set in Seattle on Friday as rookie Angel Reese extended her double-double streak to 12 games. The win served as successful revenge for Chicago after it dropped an earlier matchup at home against the Storm.

For Seattle, the loss snapped a four-game winning streak (with all four of those wins coming by double-digits). I look for the Storm to answer back on Sunday, noting that Chicago was never really able to pull away on Friday despite Seattle clearly having an off night. This is a key spot for the Storm as their schedule will only get tougher with visits from Las Vegas and Minnesota on deck this coming week. Chicago on the other hand will have an eye on a return home, already feeling pretty good about itself after winning the first two games (both in upset fashion) of this road trip. Take Seattle (10*).

My selection is on Dallas moneyline over Atlanta at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

This isn't a must-win game for Dallas but it's close as the Wings desperately need to turn the tide in the weeks leading up to the Olympic break. Knowing that it will face a daunting two-game road trip that will take it to Las Vegas and Phoenix next, I look for Dallas to rise to the occasion at home against Atlanta on Friday.

The Dream aren't exactly setting the league on fire right now. They've won just once in their last six games and that victory came against a Connecticut squad that was playing the second of back-to-backs following an overtime affair the night previous.

Atlanta suffered a blow learning that Jordin Canada will be out for an extended period due to a broken finger. She played all 40 minutes and chipped in 11 points and seven assists in Tuesday's loss to the Sky. Her absence puts even more pressure on aging superstar Tina Charles to take on much of the scoring burden.

Dallas let Atlanta off the hook in the first matchup between these two teams this season, letting an eight-point halftime lead slip away in an eventual 83-78 road defeat. Look for the Wings to get their revenge on Friday. Take Dallas moneyline (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Washington at 10 pm et on Thursday.

We won with the Aces laying the points two nights ago against the Fever and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play as they stay home to host the Mystics on Thursday.

Las Vegas is rolling right now having won five straight games but it still has its work cut out for it as it sits in third place in the West sporting an 11-6 record. We've seen that poise and focus we expected from the Aces earlier in the campaign in recent weeks and I don't expect them to take Thursday's matchup with the Mystics for granted keeping in mind these two teams were involved in what was perhaps a closer-than-expected 88-77 affair in favor of Las Vegas in Washington last Saturday.

The Mystics secured a narrow 82-80 win in Los Angeles two nights ago. Washington has been punching above its class lately but I don't like the spot here as it looks to builds on that rare road victory. Take Las Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Indiana at 9:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The Fever are coming off an upset win in Phoenix on Sunday afternoon as Caitlin Clark's captivating rookie campaign continued. Let's pump the brakes a little on Indiana's fortunes moving forward, however. That victory on Sunday only served to snap a two-game slide. It will be making its second stop in Las Vegas this season with its previous matchup on this floor resulting in a 19-point loss back in late-May. I like the Aces chances of delivering a similar result here.

Las Vegas has and extra day of rest advantage having not played since Saturday's 88-77 win over Washington. The Aces have reeled off four straight wins, all coming by double-digit margins. While the first meeting between these two teams this season was played at Michelob Ultra Arena, this one will be on a bigger stage at T-Mobile Arena. I expect the big game feel to serve as extra motivation for the hometown Aces as they look to upstage Clark and the Fever for a second time this season. Take Las Vegas (8*).

Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'over' between Dallas and Seattle at 10 pm et on Monday.

This same matchup resulted in 173 total points two nights ago and would have likely eclipsed the 180-point mark were it not for Seattle calling off the dogs after building a 20+ point lead after three quarters. I do think this rematch has the potential to be more competitive, leading to more late scoring. We haven't seen enough of an adjustment to the total on Monday. I'm not sure casual bettors realize just how bad Dallas is defensively.

The Wings have employed a matador-like defensive style, allowing five of their last eight opponents to score 90 or more points in regulation time. I do think we'll see a better offensively showing from Dallas on Monday, noting it is just one game removed from hanging 94 points on Minnesota in an upset win last Thursday.

Seattle has one of the more underrated players in the league in Jewell Loyd. The former first overall draft pick has poured in 64 points over the last two games and averages just shy of 20 points per game on the season.

Consider that these two teams got into the 170's on Saturday despite connecting on just 11 three-point attempts combined. Yes, it was a parade to the free throw line for the Storm, something that isn't likely to be repeated on Monday but I still see little reason to stray from the 'over'. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on the under between Minnesota and Chicago at 3 pm et on Sunday.

The Lynx are coming off a string of high scoring games but that’s not really their identity. Minnesota is one of the leagues best defensive teams and should be able to handle the improving Sky on Sunday. Both teams come in rested having not played since Thursday and I look for plenty of defensive intensity in this afternoon affair. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Atlanta and Connecticut at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

This projects to be one of the slower-paced games we'll see in today's WNBA with the Dream checking in off three straight losses (both SU and ATS) but having not played since Saturday and the Sun fresh off an overtime victory in Washington last night (at the tail-end of a three-game road trip that took them to the west coast).

Atlanta should come in determined to turn things around defensively after allowing its last two opponents to shoot 57% and 51% from the field. It catches the Sun in a favorable spot here as playing back-to-backs is rare in the WNBA. I'm not expecting Connecticut to suddenly push the pace in this situation.

The Sun are an elite defensive team and figure to lock down the Dream, noting that Atlanta has shot worse than 42% from the field in three straight and nine of its last 11 games overall.

We've seen three straight meetings in this series stay 'under' the total including a matchup that reached just 119 total points earlier this season. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Minnesota at 1 pm et on Thursday.

If consecutive losses in Washington doesn't represent rock-bottom for the reeling Wings, I'm not sure what will.

Dallas has now dropped 11 straight games and finds itself as a considerable home underdog in a double-revenge spot against Minnesota on Thursday afternoon. I do like the way this situation sets up for the Wings as the Lynx left it all on the floor in a hard-fought, high-scoring win over the Liberty in Tuesday's Commissioner's Cup Championship Game.

Note that the Wings are 2-1 in three home games against the Lynx going back to the start of the 2022 season, with the lone loss coming by nine points.

I have this game projected to be slower-paced than most WNBA affairs and that also favors the home underdog catching so many points on Thursday afternoon. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Minnesota and Dallas at 1 pm et on Thursday.

This play sets up well following the Lynx's incredibly high-scoring victory over the Liberty in the Commissioner's Cup Championship Game two nights ago.

Minnesota is still one of the league's more slower-paced teams and it will look to dictate the tempo and suck the life out of a down-trodden Wings squad that has lost 11 games in a row in this early start matchup on Thursday.

For Dallas, there's no path to victory in a track meet against the ultra-talented Lynx. The Wings will need to 'ugly it up' and try to keep the score down in order to keep this game competitive. Again, they do have a couple of things working for them with this early start at home with Minnesota coming off that battle against New York less than 48 hours ago. Take the under (8*).

Non-Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'under' between Minnesota and New York at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

This game was originally supposed to be played at Barclay's Center in Brooklyn but was forced to move to UBS Arena due to the NBA Draft being held at the former this week. Regardless of the setting, I'm expecting a tightly-contested, relatively low-scoring affair in the final of the Commissioner's Cup.

This matchup pits two of the league's best defensive teams. It will actually be the second meeting between the Lynx and Liberty this season after Minnesota rolled to an 84-67 home victory back in late-May.

Minnesota enters this game in peak form defensively having held its last two opponents to just 19 and 23 made field goals. Of course, the Liberty will offer a difficult challenge as they head into this game on the heels of an incredible six straight contests scoring 90 points or more. Note that Minnesota has allowed more than 80 points in only four of 16 games this season.

On the flip side, the Lynx are one of the slower-paced teams in the league and are likely to employ a similar gameplan here knowing just how explosive the Liberty offense is.

While New York doesn't bring the same elite defensive form into this game, that's not to say it can't step up in that regard. The Liberty have held seven of their last 10 opponents to worse than 45% shooting. The Lynx have made good on more than 30 field goals just once in their last seven games. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between New York and Atlanta at 3 pm et on Sunday.

The last time these two teams met on June 6th the Liberty walked away with a relatively low-scoring 78-61 victory in Manhattan. The scene shifts to Atlanta for Sunday's rematch and I believe we're in for another lower-scoring contest than most are expecting.

New York is fresh off a two-game sweep at home against Los Angeles, scoring 93 and 98 points against the Sparks matador-like defense. In fact, the Liberty have scored 90 points or more in five straight games entering Sunday's contest. I do think that streak will be in jeopardy against the Dream, one of the league's best defensive teams.

Atlanta allowed 91 points in Friday's lopsided loss against Indiana. We have seen the Dream bounce back from poor defensive showings this season, however. On June 13th they gave up an identical 91 points against the Fever but responded by holding Los Angeles to 74 points in their next game three days later. They've held seven of their last 10 opponents to 80 points or less which is probably a key number in terms of Sunday's total.

New York has given up 80 points or more in five straight games and couldn't have been all that pleased with its defensive effort in yesterday's closer-than-expected 10-point win over the Sparks. Remember, the Liberty turned in a stretch earlier this month in which they held four straight opponents to 75 points or less, including that 78-61 win over Atlanta. Take the under (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Washington plus the points over Dallas at 3 pm et on Saturday.

Washington is a team on the rise right now having gone 4-1 ATS in its last four games with the lone pointspread defeat coming earlier this week in Indiana (in a game the Mystics were competitive in right down to the wire).

There's no such glimmer of hope for the Wings right now as they're mired in a nine-game losing streak including seven ATS losses in their last eight contests.

Dallas has allowed eight straight and 12 of its last 13 opponents to connect on at least 30 field goals. That should be music to the ears of the Mystics, who have cooled off over the last couple of games, making good on just 28 and 29 field goals.

Washington has settled into a nice identity at the defensive end of the floor, where it has held five straight opponents to 67 or fewer field goal attempts and 14 of 15 foes to 68 or less. Take Washington (10*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Seattle at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

This is a prime bounce back spot for the Aces at home and seeking revenge for an earlier loss to Seattle.

Las Vegas has hit a speedbump lately, losing four of its last five games (five in a row ATS). With another difficult game on deck against Connecticut, the Aces desperately need to turn things around here and I like their chances of doing so.

Seattle has only managed to split its last four games with the two victory's coming against two of the West's weaker teams in Los Angeles and Dallas.

The Storm are playing incredibly fast right now but that plays right into the hands of the Aces, who continue to thrive offensively having knocked down 28 or more field goals in four straight and 10 of 12 games this season. Take Las Vegas (8*).

My selection is on the 'over' between Seattle and Phoenix at 3 pm et on Sunday.

This game will feature a matchup between two teams that are locked-in offensively right now not to mention a pair of teams that want to push the pace.

For Phoenix, this is a 'revenge' spot at home after suffering an 80-62 loss in Seattle on June 4th. That wasn't the Mercury's worst offensive performance this season but it's certainly in the conversation. They'll need to score all they can on Sunday as they've had no success slowing the opposition this season and Seattle will be aggressive at the offensive end of the floor.

Note that Phoenix has allowed four straight and six of its last seven opponents to connect on at least 28 field goals. Seattle has made good on 28 or more field goals in 10 of 13 games this season.

The Storm's last two games have gone 'over' the total by a combined 33 points. I don't think the oddsmakers have made enough of an adjustment to the total here. Take the over (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Connecticut and Dallas at 1 pm et on Saturday.

Dallas is riding a six-game losing streak and checks in off a putrid defensive performance against Seattle on Thursday. Had the Wings even shown a pulse defensively in that contest they likely would have been able to steal a win (and certainly cover the spread).

Unlike some of the other elite WNBA teams, Connecticut doesn't have a consistently explosive offense. The Sun have been held to 30 or fewer made field goals in seven straight games. Of course that also has to do with the fact that they play at a fairly deliberate pace.

Connecticut can certainly play some defense but like Dallas, isn't coming off a sublime performance in that regard. The Sun allowed Chicago to knock down 28-of-58 field goal attempts last time out. Expect a renewed focus at that end of the floor today.

When these two teams met for the first time this season they combined to score only 146 total points. This will be a 12 noon local start in Dallas and I'm not convinced we'll see either team 'go off' offensively. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Thursday.

The Aces appeared well-positioned to snap their two-game slide at home against Minnesota two nights ago but fell flat in a double-digit loss. Now riding a three-game losing streak, I look for the Aces to take out their frustrations on the Mercury in Phoenix on Thursday.

The Mercury are coming off a 97-90 double-overtime win in Dallas on Sunday. The Wings had every opportunity to win that game but simply couldn't knock down their shots (or take care of the basketball). I expect Phoenix to face a far more difficult test here as Las Vegas figures to bring laser focus into this one, noting that its schedule will only get tougher from here, facing the Liberty, Storm and Sun in succession next.

This serves as a 'revenge game' for the Aces as well after they suffered a double-digit home loss as 14.5-point favorites against the Mercury earlier this season. Take Las Vegas (8*).

My selection is on Seattle minus the points over Los Angeles at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Storm had their six-game winning streak snapped at the hands of the Lynx on the road on Sunday but I look for them to get right back on track as they host the Sparks on Monday.

Los Angeles is coming off consecutive upset victories including a stunner as a 10.5-point underdog against Las Vegas on Sunday. Wins like that have been few and far between for the Sparks this season, though, certainly on the road where they've won just once - that coming against the rebuilding Fever.

These two teams are on completely different planes defensively as the Storm have held seven of their last nine opponents to 27 or fewer made field goals while the Sparks have been lit up for 28 or more field goals in five straight and seven of their last eight contests. Take Seattle (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Phoenix at 4 pm et on Sunday.

I can't help but feel we're seeing an overreaction to recent results in this contest as Dallas checks in off four straight losses (three in a row ATS) and Phoenix comes off an upset win over Minnesota.

The majority of Phoenix's success has come at home this season as it has gone 1-5 on the road, albeit against mostly tough competition.

For Dallas, this is a key matchup as it needs to stem the tide before the schedule gets even tougher (Seattle, Connecticut and Minnesota are up next). The Wings fell short two nights ago in Los Angeles but I'm confident we'll see them regroup here.

The Mercury were involved in a fairly taxing affair against Minnesota on Friday, rallying to win by a single point after trailing by six at the end of the third quarter.

Keep in mind, these two teams faced each other earlier this season and Dallas prevailed by a 107-92 score in Phoenix. You know what they say, revenge is a dish best served at home. I expect the Mercury to fall short once again on Sunday. Take Dallas (8*).

Eastern Conference Total of the Year. My selection is on the 'over' between Atlanta and Chicago at 5 pm et on Saturday.

These two teams have faced absolutely brutal schedules in the early going this season, taking on the best of the best on seemingly a nightly basis.

In the case of the Sky, they've hung in there offensively, connecting on 28 or more field goals in seven of nine games. As indicated by the tight pointspread in this contest, it's unlikely they're going to run away with this game, however.

Atlanta just wrapped up a three-game stretch that saw it face Las Vegas, Connecticut and New York in succession - arguably the league's three best teams. Not surprisingly, the Dream struggled offensively during that stretch. This is a team that started off the season by scoring 92, 85 and 83 points in its first three games, however. It should be able to break through against a Chicago squad that has allowed all nine opponents to score more than 70 points this season.

The 'over' is a long-term 6-1 in the Dream's last seven games following consecutive double-digit home losses, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the 'over' is 26-16 (3-1 last three seasons) when the Sky come off a game in which they shot 15% or worse from three-point range. Take the over (10*).

My selection is on Dallas minus the points over Los Angeles at 10 pm et on Friday.

You could make a case for the Sparks being the worst team in the WNBA right now, yes, even worse than the lowly Mystics.

Los Angeles continue to employ a matador-like defense, allowing the opposition to knock down at least 28 field goals in seven of nine games to date. Offensively, things have gone from bad to worse as the Sparks have connected on 25 or fewer field goals in four straight games and just 20 in their most recent contest against Minnesota - a game they lost by 24 points here at home.

Dallas won't be short on motivation for this one after dropping three straight games including a 14-point defeat at the hands of the mighty Aces two nights ago. The Wings continue to be a handful offensively, knocking down 28 or more field goals in six straight contests. It's their defense that has let them down but they've also faced three of the league's best teams in succession in Connecticut, Minnesota and Las Vegas.

Over the last three seasons, the Wings have gone a perfect 4-0 ATS when coming off three straight losses. Take Dallas (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Indiana moneyline over Washington at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

We successfully faded the Mystics last night as Chicago rallied in the second half, eventually pulling away for a win and cover. That was a rather taxing affair for Washington, which seemed to have the game in control at halftime. While the Mystics are forced into a difficult back-to-back situation, Indiana will be taking the floor for the first time since June 2nd, when it was blasted by 36 points in New York.

The Fever are well-positioned to bounce back here. They've been as inconsistent as expected as they continue their rebuilt but are certainly further along in that sense than Washington, thanks in large part to the arrival of Caitlin Clark. Of course, Clark is coming off her worst shooting performance of her young professional career against the Liberty. I'm confident we'll see her rebound in this matchup.

Washington has managed to keep its opponent's scoring average down - relatively speaking - by slowing things to a crawl at times. I'm not convinced it will be as successful in doing so in this back-to-back situation, however. Note that despite the slow pace, the Mystics have still allowed six of nine opponents to knock down at least 27 field goals. Meanwhile, Indiana has connected on 27 or more field goals in eight of its last nine contests.

The road team has won four of the last five meetings in this series. The Fever are 59-28 straight-up in their last 87 games as a road favorite including 4-1 over the last three seasons and 1-0 this year. Take Indiana moneyline (10*).

My selection is on Chicago minus the points over Washington at 7 pm et on Thursday.

The Washington Mystics have offered little hope of a turnaround following an 0-9 start to the season, most recently knocking down a pitiful 20 field goals in a 17-point loss in Connecticut two nights ago.

While Chicago is by no means an elite WNBA team, it has grabbed plenty of headlines thanks to outspoken rookie Angel Reese. The Sky are certainly a class above the Mystics, noting they've earned a pair of impressive road wins in Dallas and New York already this season and also took Connecticut down to the wire in a loss (but cover) at home.

Here, the Sky will look to snap a brief two-game losing streak and I'm confident they'll do just that, noting they're a long-term 36-26 ATS as a road favorite of six points or less and the Mystics check in 33-40 ATS in their last 73 contests following consecutive double-digit losses, as is the case here. Take Chicago (8*).

Game of the Month. My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Dallas at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Las Vegas Aces are coming off an upset loss at the hands of the Atlanta Dream last time out, spoiling a two-game winning streak. I'm confident we'll see them bounce back in a big way on Wednesday as they travel to Dallas to face a Wings squad that checks in off back-to-back losses and plays matador-like defense having allowed all seven opponents they've faced this season to knock down at least 29 field goals. In stark contrast, Las Vegas has held its last two opponents to just 24 and 22 made field goals. This will be the Aces first game since last Friday while the Wings played Sunday in Minnesota. Expect Las Vegas to roll. Take Las Vegas (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Seattle minus the points over Minnesota at 9:30 pm et on Friday.

The Storm were stunned in their home opener against these same Lynx on Tuesday, dropping an 83-70 decision as 7.5-point favorites. The good news is, Seattle is a long-term 225-182 ATS when coming off an ATS defeat including 23-16 ATS in that situation over the last two-plus seasons. The Storm are also a long-term 42-34 ATS when coming off an upset loss at home. Meanwhile, Minnesota is a long-term 46-49 ATS as a home underdog including 7-11 ATS over the last two-plus seasons. Take Seattle (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Washington and Connecticut at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

The Mystics saw their first game go 'over' the total thanks to a meaningless last second foul that resulted in two made Sabrina Ionescu free throws. I don't believe Washington is going to be a strong 'over' bet this season, not with an offense that figures to wind up ranking near the bottom of the league. Note that in its opener, Washington connected on just 31-of-78 field goal attempts. It is unlikely to approach 80 field goal attempts again as it faces a more methodical Connecticut squad on Friday. The Sun limited Caitlin Clark's Indiana Fever to just 24-of-50 from the field in their season opener. Note that the 'under' is a long-term 65-56 with Connecticut coming off a game in which it scored 90 or more points, as is the case here, including a 15-12 mark in that situation over the last three seasons. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Chicago and Dallas at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

This matchup is more about who won't be on the floor than who will as the Sky and Wings begin their respective campaigns on Wednesday. Chicago will be without number three overall draft pick Kamilla Cardoso for at least a month after she got hurt in the team's first preseason game. The Sky already figured to be one of the league's worst teams this season so her absence strikes a blow to be sure. Dallas is a bit of a wild card entering the 2024 campaign but one thing we do know is it will be without one of its best players in Satou Sabally through the Olympic break in August after she suffered a shoulder injury. It will be all about treading water until Sabally can return for the stretch run. The 'watch factor' is about as low as it gets in this early season affair. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between New York and Washington at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We've seen five straight meetings between these two teams go 'over' the total and that's notable as that's the longest streak of its kind in this series since 2015-16. On that occasion, the next matchup totalled just 137 points (easily staying 'under' the closing total of 165). This series obviously goes back a long way yet we've never seen six straight matchups go 'over' the total. I expect that to hold true as the Liberty and Mystics match up for the first time in 2024 on Tuesday. Washington continues its rebuild and will look to avenge last year's first round playoff exit at the hands of New York. The Mystics want to become more of a three-point shooting team but it's going to take some time to find success doing that. The Liberty are obviously loaded with talent and a true WNBA title contender after bowing out in the final last year. I'm not convinced we'll see them throw everything they have at the Mystics in this very winnable road game on opening night, however. Keep in mind, New York will be back at it for Caitlin Clark's home debut with the Fever on Thursday. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on Atlanta plus the points over Washington at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

Washington has been far too soft defensively to warrant being a considerable road favorite against the Dream in Atlanta on Wednesday. The Mystics have allowed 30+ made field goals in six of their last nine games, despite seven of those opponents getting off fewer than 70 field goal attempts. Atlanta figures to take full advantage, noting that it has knocked down 31 and 33 field goals in its last two contests and has generally been forcing the issue offensively this season, hoisting up 70+ FG attempts in six of its last nine games. Defensively, we've seen the Dream tighten things up lately, limiting three of their last four opponents to 27 or fewer made field goals. Meanwhile, Washington has made good on fewer than 30 field goals in five of its last seven games overall. Take Atlanta (8*).

WNBA Game of the Year. My selection is on Connecticut minus the points over Dallas at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

While the Sun have won just twice in their last five games, including an narrow two-point victory over Washington last time out, I believe they're on the cusp of going on another run. Connecticut has certainly been 'filling it up' lately, knocking down 31, 27, 32 and 30 field goals over its last four games. Now it draws a favorable matchup against a Dallas defense that has yielded its last two opponents 34 and 37 made field goals (on 76+ attempts). In fact, the Wings have allowed 28+ made field goals in 10 of their last 11 contests. Only one of Connecticut's last five opponents has managed to knock down more than 27 field goals. I like the way the Sun have been limiting their opponents scoring opportunities, allowing fewer than 70 FG attempts in six consecutive games. While Dallas did make good on 33-of-66 FG attempts last time out against Los Angeles, it is just one game removed from shooting a miserable 17-of-59 against a subpar Minnesota defense. Dallas has made 30+ field goals only twice in its last five contests. Dallas snuck away with a victory in Connecticut in the first meeting between these two teams this season but revenge was sweet for the Sun as they won by 31 points two nights later. Here, we'll note that Connecticut is on a 19-6 ATS run against Western Conference opponents, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 8.4 points. Take Connecticut (10*).

Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Phoenix and Los Angeles at 7 pm et on Monday.

The most recent meeting between these two teams totalled only 155 points so not surprisingly we're dealing with a lower posted total this time around. I'm not sure we've seen enough of an adjustment though. The Mercury have done a nice job of limiting their opponents scoring opportunities lately, allowing 67 or fewer field goal attempts in six straight games. They allowed 91 points in their most recent contest - a blowout loss against Chicago as the Sky quite simply shot the lights out (30-of-57 from the field). While Los Angeles has been 'filling it up' lately, making good on 37 and 30 field goals over its last two contests I expect it to run into a speedbump here. Note that the Sparks have tightened things up defensively, allowing 27 or fewer made field goals in three of their last four games. You would have to go back five games to find the last time Los Angeles allowed 70+ field goal attempts. With Phoenix playing its second game in three days and Los Angeles in a 3-in-4 situation, I'm not convinced either side will be interested in a track meet here. Take the under (10*).

WNBA Game of the Week. My selection is on Seattle minus the points over Los Angeles at 9 pm et on Saturday.

The Storm have quietly rounded back into form, going 6-1 SU and 4-3 ATS over their last seven games, including back-to-back SU and ATS victories entering Saturday's contest against the Sparks. Seattle has been 'filling it up', knocking down 37, 29, 28, 28, 32 and 31 field goals over its last six games and should be able to keep it going against a weak Los Angeles defense that has yielded 32+ made field goals in seven of its last 10 games. The Sparks offense has been wildly inconsistent lately. After scoring 82 and 84 points over a two-game stretch it was held to just 59 points on 26-of-79 shooting against a vulnerable Chicago defense last time out. The Storm took the first meeting between these two teams by just three points back in May. Keep in mind, that matchup came at a time when Seattle was playing an uneven brand of basketball. The Sparks shot the lights out in that contest, something I don't anticipate them doing here. Take Seattle (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Seattle and Connecticut at 7 pm et on Friday.

Seattle has seen each of its last three games go 'over' the total as its three opponents on its current road trip have quite simply shot the lights out. Note that the Storm do check in having held seven consecutive opponents to fewer than 70 field goal attempts. I don't think they'll have any interest in getting involved in a track meet as they play their fourth road game in the last eight nights, against a Connecticut squad that just put up 105 points in a double-digit win over Atlanta two nights ago. The Sun usually rank among the top defensive teams in the WNBA but like the Storm, they've run into some hot-shooting opponents of late. Note that Connecticut is still allowing just 28-of-66 shooting on average at home this season. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 18-8 with the Storm coming off three straight games totalling at least 155 points over the last three seasons, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Sun have seen the 'under' cash at a 13-5 clip when coming off four or five ATS wins over their last six games over the last two seasons, which is also the situation tonight. Take the under (8*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Seattle and Minnesota at 9 pm et on Tuesday.

Seattle is coming off consecutive 'over' results in a two-game set in Dallas. The Wings shot exceptionally well in those two contests, knocking down 30 and 31 field goals. I don't expect the short-handed Lynx to do the same against the Storm on Tuesday. Note that Minnesota is coming off a strong shooting performance of its own, making good on 32-of-71 field goal attempts but that came against the lowly Indiana Fever - arguably the worst defensive team in the league. It will face a much different challenge here. Note that in the first meeting between these two teams this season, a healthier Minnesota squad got off a whopping 79 FG attempts but still scored just 74 points. Seattle has been ultra-efficient offensively over its last several games but certainly isn't playing at all that fast of a pace. The Storm have attempted just 61, 67 and 62 field goals in their last three contests. I suspect we'll see them 'manage' proceedings should they build a lead here, noting that they're in the midst of a five-game in 10-night road trip. Here, we'll note that the 'under' is 18-7 the last 25 times Minnesota has come off consecutive home losses, as is the case here. Take the under (8*).

Western Conference Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Seattle and Dallas at 4 pm et on Sunday.

We're dealing with a considerably higher total than we saw in the front half of this two-game set between the Storm and Wings in Dallas on Friday. That game finished with a whopping 177 points. Keep in mind, these two teams just met last week in Seattle and reached only 119 points. I believe Sunday's total will prove too high. Seattle absolutely shot the lights out on Friday night, knocking down 37-of-67 field goal attempts. The Storm also turned in an uncharacteristically poor defensive performance, allowing 30 made field goals. Here, I look for Seattle to 'manage' proceedings somewhat as it continues a tough five-game in 10-night road trip. Dallas checks in averaging just 26-of-68 shooting here at home this season. On the flip side, the Wings have held opponents to 29-of-64 shooting in the host role and should make the necessary adjustments after getting lit up by the Storm on Friday. Note that the 'under' is 12-4 with the Storm coming off consecutive wins over the last two seasons, resulting in an average total of 153.8 points. Take the under (10*).

My selection is on the 'under' between Las Vegas and Los Angeles at 9 pm et on Saturday.

The most recent meeting between these two teams saw the Aces set a WNBA three-point record in a 104-76 rout, easily cruising 'over' the posted total on that night. I expect a different story to unfold on Saturday, however, yet we're being afforded a considerably higher total. The Sparks have had a tough enough time just getting shots off lately, attempting only 56, 56 and 59 field goals over their last three games. That's obviously not going to cut it against a team as strong as the Aces. With that being said, I'm not convinced the Sparks are interested in getting involved in another track meet here. Las Vegas hasn't played in nearly a week, last taking the floor in an 84-78 win over Dallas last Sunday. Note that only one of the Aces last four games has managed to go 'over' the total we're working with tonight. Take the under (8*).

WNBA Revenge Game of the Year. My selection is on Seattle minus the points over Dallas at 8 pm et on Friday.

We missed with the Storm in the last meeting between these two teams last week as Seattle was trounced by 17 points, at home no less. The Wings have now taken the last two matchups in this series but I look for the Storm to get their revenge on Friday. This will be Dallas' first game back home since May 21st as it comes off a tough five-game road trip that saw it go 2-3 SU and 3-2 ATS. We saw some signs of tired legs from the Wings at the tail-end of that trip as they knocked down just 26 and 27 field goals in their last two games. In the latter performance they actually got off a whopping 78 field goal attempts against Las Vegas. That doesn't bode well as they prepare to face a stingy Storm defense that has allowed fewer than 70 field goal attempts in nine of its last 10 games. While Wings' opponents have been 'filling it up' lately, making good on 30+ field goals in three of their last four games, the Storm have limited four of their last five opponents to 26 or fewer made field goals. We'll note that Seattle is a long-term 104-77 ATS when coming off four or five losses ATS in their last six games, as is the case here. The best is yet to come from the Storm at both ends of the floor and I look for them to build off Tuesday's double-digit win over the Dream on Friday. Take Seattle (10*).