Liberty vs. Lynx Game 5 prediction: WNBA Finals odds, picks, best bets
2024-10-20
Liberty Poised to Clinch WNBA Title in Decisive Game 5 Showdown
The WNBA Finals have been a thrilling back-and-forth affair between the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx, with three of the four games decided by a single score. As the series heads to a winner-take-all Game 5 at Barclays Center, the Liberty are poised to claim their first championship since 2002.
Destiny Awaits the Liberty in Highly Anticipated WNBA Finals Finale
Dominant Home-Court Advantage Fuels Liberty's Title Aspirations
The Liberty have been a force to be reckoned with at Barclays Center throughout the postseason, boasting a 5-1 record and a net rating of +10.6 in their six home games. In the WNBA Finals, they have utterly dominated the Lynx on their home floor, outscoring them by a staggering 29 points in the combined 35 remaining minutes from Game 1 and the entirety of Game 2.The Liberty's ability to build and maintain substantial leads at home has been a key factor in their success. Aside from a historic collapse in the final minutes of Game 1, New York has consistently maintained a firm grip on the proceedings when playing in front of their passionate fans. This home-court advantage could prove to be the decisive edge as the Liberty look to clinch the championship on Sunday.
Offensive Rebounding Prowess Poses Significant Challenge for Lynx
One of the primary reasons for the Liberty's dominance at Barclays Center has been their relentless work on the offensive glass. During their two home games in the finals, the Liberty have posted an astounding offensive rebounding percentage of 44%, which is nearly 10 percentage points higher than the league-leading Dallas Wings' regular-season mark.This ability to generate second-chance opportunities has been a major thorn in the side of the Lynx, who have struggled to contain the Liberty's offensive rebounding onslaught. Allowing an opponent like the Liberty, who boasted the highest offensive rating in the regular season, to consistently secure offensive rebounds and extend possessions has been a significant weakness for Minnesota.As the series shifts back to New York, the Liberty will undoubtedly look to continue their dominance on the offensive boards, further stifling the Lynx's defensive efforts and creating a steady stream of high-percentage scoring chances. This battle on the glass could be the deciding factor in the outcome of Game 5.
Liberty's Offensive Firepower Primed to Overwhelm Lynx Defense
The Liberty's offensive prowess has been on full display throughout the WNBA Finals, with their ability to score in bunches posing a constant threat to the Lynx. Led by the dynamic duo of Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, the Liberty have showcased their versatility and scoring punch, making them a formidable opponent for any team.Ionescu's game-winning, step-back 3-pointer in Game 3 was a testament to her clutch performance and the Liberty's ability to make plays when it matters most. Coupled with Stewart's consistent scoring and all-around impact, the Liberty's offensive arsenal is a significant challenge for the Lynx to contain.As the series reaches its climactic conclusion, the Liberty's offensive firepower, combined with their dominant home-court advantage and relentless work on the offensive glass, make them the favorites to emerge victorious in Game 5 and claim their first WNBA championship in over two decades.