Nothing like a good playoff picture battle before the WNBA All-Star Game. We have two such matchups on Wednesday between Western Conference squads. One of those games is between the Golden State Valkyries and the Seattle Storm.
The Valkyries have been one of the surprises of the season. It’s typical for WNBA expansion franchises to struggle in their first season. The fact that Golden State remains in the playoff picture halfway through the season is an incredible feat. On the back of its outstanding defense, it is trying to make some noise in its debut season.
Seattle has the potential to make a significant impact this year. Its defense is loaded top to bottom, and the offense is powered by excellent talents in Skylar Diggins and Nneka Ogwumike. Things haven’t fully materialized yet with its 13-9 record, but this team was built for the slog of the playoffs.
The Storm are five-point favorites at home and are -218 on the moneyline on DraftKings Sportsbook. The total is 157.5 points. Let’s look at the best bets and predictions for this contest.
Valkyries vs. Storm Prediction
There’s one key factor in Golden State’s favor here: the return of Janelle Salaün. The 23-year-old has made an excellent two-way impact in her rookie season. After coming back from Europe, this Valkyries team only gets deeper. More importantly, it gives them another athletic option against a deep Storm squad.
It’s very difficult to predict who will win this one. This will be a grimy defensive contest, with two of the league’s best defenses going head-to-head. Ultimately, I have the Storm pulling this one out, but it will be a close-fought game.
Valkyries vs. Storm Pick
Under 157.5 (-110)
This is a very strong spread, and I have a tough time deciding which way to go. But I am sure of one thing: points will be at a premium here.
The Valkyries have a ton of defenders to throw at Diggins and Ogwumike. Head coach Natalie Nakase has this team flowing and competing hard on that end of the floor. And if they can contain Seattle’s offense, this should be an easy under. Golden State’s offense has largely struggled; that won’t improve against this Storm defense. It may not be the prettiest game, so we should bet it accordingly.
