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Minnesota (30-7) at Washington (21-14)
- When: Aug 21 2026, 7:30 PM
- Where: CareFirst Arena, Washington, DC, USA
- TV: ION
Minnesota vs Washington Preview & Prediction
Spread: Minnesota -2.0
Moneyline: Minnesota (-135)
Total: 166.5
Washington Wakes Up
The Washington Mystics are suddenly acting like they want more than a participation trophy in the playoffs.
Washington improved to 21-14 after beating Toronto 93-82, scoring 11 points above its season average. Even more shocking, the Mystics made 9 of 27 three-pointers despite shooting a league-worst 29.9% from deep this season. Somebody apparently plugged the offense back in.
Michaela Onyenwere and Georgia Amoore combined to hit 7 of 14 from three, while Kiki Iriafen and Shakira Austin both recorded double-doubles.
Washington still earns its paycheck inside. The Mystics lead the WNBA in rebounding, with Austin averaging 9.6 boards and Iriafen adding 9.2 per game.
Minnesota Means Business
Minnesota arrives at 30-7 after beating Golden State 77-66 and basically putting one hand on the No. 1 playoff seed.
The Lynx are only 2-point favorites, which tells us Bovada oddsmakers expect Washington to make them work for dinner.
The biggest concern is Olivia Miles. The rookie star averages 19.9 points and 6.2 assists but left Wednesday’s game with an ankle injury. She was listed as probable Thursday, so Minnesota appears likely to have its offensive engine available.
Minnesota has already shown plenty of toughness, and Cheryl Reeve’s team rarely melts when games turn ugly.
LVSB Prediction
These teams split their June home-and-home series, with each winning on the road, because apparently home-court advantage was taking vacation.
Washington’s rebounding and improving shooting make the Mystics dangerous, but Minnesota remains the deeper and more consistent team. With the Lynx laying only 2 points, we’re willing to trust the team sitting at 30-7 rather than suddenly pretending Washington has transformed into an offensive juggernaut after one 93-point night.
The total of 166.5 feels slightly ambitious considering both teams are comfortable winning with defense.
LVSB Pick: Minnesota Lynx -2.0
Total Lean: Under 166.5
Score Prediction: Lynx 84, Mystics 79
- WNBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
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