The playoffs will take place for the top eight teams in the 2019 WNBA standings. These spots are currently held by the Las Vegas Aces and Seattle Storm. However, a few surprises can still lurk in the standings. Phoenix and Las Vegas have struggled to close games on the road, while Minnesota's Big Three has been a constant Achilles heel all season. Let's look at the other league teams.
Phoenix's offense is inconsistent
The team's offensive production is inconsistent but its forwards are a bright spot. Brianna's average point score is 17.2 but her efficiency has not been great. She only shoots 38 percent from behind the arc and 27 percent in three-point shooting. Sandy Brondello has 17 career playoff victories and has been successful in developing younger players. She has a youthful energy and inspires others.
Phoenix has been a fairly consistent defense team but has struggled with scoring in recent games. Despite Diana Taurasi recording her 10th consecutive win with 20 points, Sunday's Mercury loss was to Atlanta Dream. The Mercury's defensive rating stands at 103.5 while their offensive rating sits at 103.3. Skylar Diggins-Smith, who averages 36 fantasy points per game, is another player to keep an eye on.
Las Vegas has struggled to close games on the road
Las Vegas is currently in the thicket of the playoff race with three games remaining. For the Eastern Conference's second seed, Connecticut is just half-game behind. Washington and Seattle are about half-a-game behind each other for the fourth- and fifth seeds. Dallas, however, has already secured a playoff spot and will likely be the sixth seed. The playoff race is wide open with only one game separating seventh place Atlanta from No. 11-seed Los Angeles.
The Aces are unstoppable at home, despite losing several games on the road. The Aces are unstoppable at home, having won four straight games against Bulls. They also won nine of the last 11. They have been in contention for a rise in the standings, despite their three losses in the postseason. A recent win in a hostile environment could help them gain momentum heading into the postseason.
All season, Minnesota's Big Three were Minnesota's Achilles heel.
The health problems at the wide receiver, running back and running back positions have caused problems for the Gophers' running games. Mohamed Ibrahim, a true freshman suffered a season-ending injury during the opener. The team still has its top three running backs. Chris Autman Bell missed the opening two games because of injury, but is expected to be back Saturday. The remaining scholarship runners backs aren't as healthy as they were at beginning of season.
The offensive line has been the Achilles' heel all season, but it has turned around in the last week. Christian Darrisaw is set to start as the full-time left tackle and Garrett Bradbury returns at center. Ezra Cleveland continues to adjust to his position as left guard. Jesse Davis, Ed Ingram, Chris Reed and Ed Reed will vie for the right spot.