Prediction: Los Angeles Sparks VS Minnesota Lynx 2025-06-14
Folks, we've got a real barnburner of a matchup for you today, as the Los Angeles Sparks (4-7) are set to take on the juggernaut Minnesota Lynx (9-1) in the WNBA Commissioner's Cup. The Lynx are looking to bounce back from their first loss of the season, and they're hosting a Sparks team that's trying to build on their momentum after a 97-89 win against the Aces.
First off, let's talk about the Lynx's star player, Napheesa Collier. The woman's a beast, averaging 25.4 points and 8.9 rebounds per game. She's the engine that makes this team go, and if she's on, watch out. The Sparks, on the other hand, are led by Kelsey Plum, who's putting up 21 points and 5.7 assists per game. Dearica Hamby is also playing some of her best ball, averaging 18.2 points per contest.
Now, here's the thing: the Sparks have had some injuries, most notably Cameron Brink's season-ending ACL and meniscus tear. And let's be real, Rickea Jackson has been in a bit of a sophomore slump. But hey, they're still a team that's capable of putting up points, and they're looking for back-to-back wins.
The Lynx, meanwhile, are dealing with their own issues. They got outscored 50-34 in the paint in their last game, and they're looking to refocus on defense. Collier herself said, "Our defense wasn't up to par. They came ready to play, and we didn't really."
So, what's the smart money? Well, the odds are heavily in favor of the Lynx, with most bookmakers listing them as 1.16-1.18 favorites. The Sparks are around 4.75-5.35 underdogs. The spread is around 10-11 points, with the Lynx favored.
Based on historical trends, underdogs win about 32% of the time in the WNBA, so we're not expecting an upset here. But hey, the Sparks have shown some potential, and they're not going to go down without a fight.
As for the best bet, I'm going to go with the Minnesota Lynx to cover the spread (-10.5). Their interior defense needs to step up, but I trust Collier and company to get it done. I'd also recommend taking the Under on 162.5-163 points, given that both teams might tighten up on defense.
The final prediction: Minnesota Lynx 90, Los Angeles Sparks 78.
Best bet: Minnesota Lynx -10.5, Under 162.5 points.
Confidence level: 8/10.
Go catch the game on CBS at 1 p.m. ET, folks!
Created: June 14, 2025, 4:08 a.m. GMT