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The smarting Chicago Sky host the solid-looking Washington Mystics at Wintrust Arena on Wednesday. The Sky's playoff hopes took a hit after they dropped a close game against defending champions Las Vegas Aces despite Angel Reese's superhuman rebounding effort. The Mystics have been on a two-game winning streak, and are 3.5 games behind the Sky for a playoff slot.
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Both teams have met twice this season, and have split the meetings. A win will see the Sky snap a three-game losing skid, and more importantly, give them some breathing space from the Atlanta Dream who are hot on their trail. The midweek matchup is a must-win for the hosts.
Washington Mystics vs Chicago Sky preview, predicted starting lineups, odds, and prediction
Tip-off is slated for 8:00 p.m. ET. Local coverage will be on Marquee Sports Network and Monumental Sports Network. Fans can also catch the game live on the WNBA App with a subscription to the WNBA League Pass. Here's a quick look at the odds ahead of the marquee matchup.
Spread: Mystics -1.5, Sky +1.5
Moneyline: Mystics -120, Sky +106
Total: Mystics o158.5, Sky u158.5
Washington Mystics vs Chicago Sky preview
The Washington Mystics are currently out of playoff reckoning, but they made a massive statement by winning two of their last games. A win over the No. 8 seeded Chicago side will boost the confidence. They have Brittney Sykes to thank for as she averages 14.0 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.3 assists. Ariel Atkins has led from the front with 15.3 points per game.
Shakira Austin has been a force on rebounds averaging 7.3 boards per game. However, a rolled ankle makes her a game-time decision. On the stats front, Washington is placed eighth on defense and allows their opponents 83.4 points per game.
The Sky is one of the teams who have managed to rally back into contention after a start-stop run this season. While they are in the hunt for a postseason berth, they haven't helped their cause by losing four of their last five games. A win on Tuesday will boost their playoff chances and they will look to Chennedy Carter (17.2 ppg), and Angel Reese (13.5 ppg and 12.9 rpg) to deliver. The Sky are placed near-bottom in scoring but are better in defense and are placed sixth.
Washington Mystics vs Chicago Sky predicted starting lineups
The Mystics will likely stick to Ariel Atkins and Julie Vanloo at PG and SG respectively. Brittney Sykes at SF, Shakira Austin at PF, and Stefanie Dolson at C round up the starters.
The Sky will lead with Lindsey Allen at PG, Chennedy Carter at SG, Angel Reese at SF, Michaela Onyenwere at PF, and Kamilla Cardoso at C.
Washington Mystics vs Chicago Sky prediction
The momentum that's with the Mystics makes them favorites to chalk up a win. But the Sky are in desperate need of a turnaround, and that might see them bring the fight as well. Take the Sky for the win as they look to cement a playoff spot.
