With the league resuming play after the All-Star break and only a few weeks away from the upcoming FIBA break, many teams are now entering a critical phase of the season. While the lower half of the standings remains fairly stable, the race among the top teams is heating up as the regular season nears its end.
Some teams have returned from the break visibly energized and performing at a higher level, while others have seen their momentum falter. Below, we highlight a few squads making significant strides forward, those that have fallen behind, and a few unexpected observations.
Teams Making Significant Gains
Washington Mystics
The Washington Mystics are quickly emerging as one of the most formidable forces in the league. They entered the All-Star break with back-to-back wins against tough competitors—the Las Vegas Aces and the Dallas Wings—and their confidence clearly carried over post-break. Currently on a seven-game winning streak, five of which were against strong playoff contenders, they now boast the longest active streak in the W and are just one victory shy of matching their franchise record. The Mystics have climbed from 8th to 6th place in the power rankings and have positioned themselves firmly in the playoff picture. However, they face a challenging week ahead with consecutive games against the top-ranked Aces. Much of their success hinges on the stellar season being put together by Shakira Austin.
Minnesota Lynx
Previously ranked second behind the Aces, the Minnesota Lynx have reclaimed the league’s top spot. They recently became the first team to secure a playoff berth and now have their sights set on the No. 1 seed, which looks well within reach as they hold a three-game lead over the Valkyries. The Lynx have dominated lately, winning 12 of their past 13 games against teams like Las Vegas, New York, Indiana, and Dallas. The return of Napheesa Collier adds another layer of threat to an already elite squad. Key players such as Kayla McBride set records, notably McBride’s astonishing 10 three-pointers and a 43-point night, while rookie Olivia Miles has averaged 24.3 points per game over the last four contests. This team is not just rising—they are a genuine contender for a deep postseason run.
Teams Facing Challenges
Dallas Wings
Unfortunately for the Dallas Wings, their post-All-Star performance has taken a hit. They have dropped five of their last six games, revealing some vulnerabilities, especially with key starter Azzi Fudd sidelined due to injury. Despite a strong first half that gives them some cushion, their recent struggles against playoff-bound opponents like Minnesota, Golden State, Washington, and Atlanta are concerning as the postseason approaches. The Wings need to regain momentum quickly, with upcoming games against Indiana and Golden State critical to turning their season around.
Toronto Tempo
Once still in contention for the playoffs, the Toronto Tempo’s chances have dimmed considerably. Moving from 9th to 13th in the rankings, they are currently on an eight-game losing streak. Though they’ve faced tough opponents in this stretch, including Golden State, Minnesota, and Las Vegas, a few wins were needed to keep playoff hopes alive. Injuries have severely impacted the team’s performance, with Brittney Sykes out since mid-June and Kiki Rice just recently returning. On the bright side, the addition of Aneesah Morrow before the trade deadline has bolstered their frontcourt, and with Sykes expected back by season’s end, the Tempo may still have a chance to climb back up.
Unexpected Insights
Promising Talent on Lower-Ranked Teams
The Phoenix Mercury gained a significant boost by acquiring Kelsey Plum, whose early performances with the team have been promising. Alongside Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper—her former Team USA teammates—Plum’s 20-point debut with 4 assists has sparked excitement, though Phoenix faces an uphill battle to reach the playoffs. Whether Plum remains a Mercury staple in 2027 remains an intriguing storyline.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Sky, another team in the lower half, has improved their ranking by three spots, mainly thanks to rookie Sydney Taylor’s surprising impact. Unheralded before the season, Taylor’s clutch game-winning three-pointer against the Las Vegas Aces has made her a player to watch. Provided the Sky stay healthy, Taylor could be the catalyst that elevates the team next season.
Fan Take:
This latest update highlights the shifting dynamics of the WNBA as both established contenders and emerging stars shape the playoff picture. For fans, it promises intense matchups and storylines that could elevate the league’s profile and showcase the growing depth of talent in women’s basketball—meaning the excitement isn’t just about this season, but the sport’s future as well.
Source: winsidr.com
