The Valkyries and Mercury will face off for the second time within a week. Phoenix won the last matchup 98-91 despite trailing 59-47 at halftime.
Golden State hasn’t played since, while Phoenix is on the second night of a back-to-back. Nonetheless, Phoenix is still a six-point favorite on DraftKings Sportsbook. The over/under is set at 155.5 points.
Here’s my prediction and pick for Friday’s Valkyries vs. Mercury matchup.
Valkyries vs. Mercury prediction
The Valkyries are in a tough spot. They’re hanging on to the seventh seed, but their best player Kayla Thornton is out for the season. Additionally, the team has a hefty injury report for tonight. They had just eight available players on Tuesday in their last game.
Two of the five players on the injury report are game-time decisions, so it’s possible the Valkyries get some extra depth tonight. Still, it’s tough to run such a short roster with playoff hopes on the line.
On the bright side, Golden State performed well with eight players against the Mercury. Will that happen again? We’ll find out tonight.
Phoenix is on the second night of a back-to-back after losing in Las Vegas last night. Kahleah Copper is a game-time decision, which is a notable injury for the team. If she’s playing, it gives the Mercury a big advantage.
Valkyries vs. Mercury pick, best bet
It was inspiring to see the Valkyries compete with the Mercury on Tuesday, but that’s not realistic every night. The team out-did itself in the first half before losing the lead in the second half.
Even with Phoenix on the second night of a back-to-back, I’m not confident enough to bet on Golden State. The Mercury are a top five WNBA team for a reason — they will show that tonight and cover the six-point spread.