The Mystics and Dream continue their first-round series with Game 2 in Washington on Wednesday night. The Dream took Game 1 and can advance to the semi-finals with a win. On DraftKings Sportsbook, Atlanta is favored by 3.5 points for Game 2 and this contest carries a total of 165.5 points.
Let’s dive into my preview, prediction, and pick for this matchup.
Mystics vs. Dream Game 2 Preview
After the Mystics went 2-1 vs. the Dream in the regular season, Atlanta landed the first punch in this first-round series, taking Sunday’s Game 1, 92-77. The Mystics were ahead for most of the first half and early in the third quarter, but then, the Dream turned the tables and never looked back. Atlanta outscored Washington 56-36 in the second half.
The Dream’s backcourt was awesome, with Rhyne Howard leading the way with 26 points and Allisha Gray scoring 22 points. Angel Reese struggled with her shot, going 4-of-15 from the field, but she still tallied a double-double. DeWanna Bonner made her veteran presence known, posting 13 points off the bench. Atlanta is now a perfect 6-0 since Bonner joined the team following her exit from the Mercury; the Dream are a +14.1 in net rating with the two-time WNBA champion on the floor.
For the Mystics, it was their big three leading the way, per usual. Sonia Citron was stellar, scoring 25 points on 8-of-15 shooting, and both Kiki Iriafen and Shakira Austin posted double-doubles. However, no other player for Washington scored more than eight points.
The Mystics easily won the rebounding battle 50-31, but Washington turned the ball over 22 times compared to just seven for Atlanta, which was the main difference in this game. The Dream scored 27 points off turnovers while the Mystics only scored four. Washington has the youngest roster in the WNBA and it often shows, as this club led the league in turnovers per game this season (15.5).
Coughing the ball up is the Mystics’ main flaw, along with their inconsistent offense, as they rank 12th in offensive rating this season. However, Washington has improved on that end of the floor as the season progressed and this team’s defense is truly elite, ranking second in defensive rating. The Mystics have only lost twice in their last nine and if they can protect the ball better tonight, they will have a real chance to keep their season alive.
The Dream are playing at a high level, though, and are a tough team to beat right now. Not only has Atlanta won six straight since Bonner signed with the club, but the Dream have only lost once in their last 11. Atlanta ranks top-five in both offensive and defensive rating this season.
So, will the Dream keep it rolling and advance with a win tonight? Or, will the Mystics bounce back on their home floor and extend their season? We will find out tonight in Game 2 in what should be an excellent playoff matchup.
Mystics vs. Dream Game 2 Pick, Best Bet
While the Dream are on a tear right now, the Mystics also are in compelling form despite the Game 1 loss. Turning the ball over 22 times simply isn’t going to happen again.
Washington should clean it up in that department and keep the season alive with a win. The Mystics are 15-7 SU at home and 11-5 SU after a loss this season.
