Washington Mystics vs. Connecticut Sun

Quick read:

Expect a high-scoring affair as the Mystics and Sun battle for every rebound, combining for nearly 70 boards a game, which typically leads to more shot attempts and, consequently, more points. Neither team’s three-point shooting is lighting up the scoreboard, so the scoring will likely come from inside and off putbacks rather than long-range fireworks. This dynamic sets the stage for a game where possession battles and offensive rebounds drive the total above the given line.

The Mystics’ 35.1 rebounds per game and the Sun’s 34.1 suggest a physical game under the rim, which usually translates into more scoring chances despite their middling outside shooting percentages. The underwhelming three-point accuracy, 29.1% for Washington and 26.6% for Connecticut, means defenses can sag a bit on the perimeter, allowing for easier baskets inside or from second-chance points. This should help push the total points across the 163.5 threshold.

The only fly in the ointment is if both teams suddenly decide to hoard possessions like they’re rare collector’s items, slowing the pace down. That would