WNBA: Minnesota Lynx at Los Angeles Sparks – Notes From the Office

Recap of Minnesota Vs. Los Angeles

While Minnesota was able to hold onto their lead, they did not look as sharp as they have in previous games. Napheesa Collier went 0 – 6 from three, end with 17 poi9nts, Kayla McBride went 1 – 9 from three and ended with 5 points, and Bridget Carleton had another disappointing outing, scoring only four points.

Natisha Hiedeman, Courtney Williams, and Alanna Smith all reached double figures, shooting 18, 16, and 15 respectively. Maria Kliundikova scored five points and bagged four rebounds and two assists in 9 minutes. Diamond Miller, who has been playing much better lately, hit a pair of 3s.

The Sparks were led by Kelsey Plum with 17 points, following by Julie Vanloo with 15, Rickea Jackson with 14, and Dearica Hamby with 12. The surprise standout for the Sparks was JVanloo, who made 5 – 7 shots, all threes. After recently and abruptly being waived by the Golden State Valkyries, Vanloo has found a home in Los Angeles, teaming up with fellow Belgian Julie Allemand. Vanloo looks immediately comfortable with the Sparks, and is a great pickup for them. 

A Closer Look At The Lynx And Sparks

This version of the Sparks has great potential to be a contending team. Led by Kelsey Plum, there is a very apparent chemistry that is building. Of course, when Cameron Brink is finally able to play, expect to see even more of a change. Kelsey Plum moving to Los Angeles looks to be a terrific move.

Her game looks more relaxed than it did in Las Vegas, and not having the specter of A’ja Wilson to deal with, Plum simply looks happier. Under the tutelage of first year coach Lynne Roberts, this version of the Sparks could very soon be a force to reckon with.

While Minnesota has struggled some offensively and defensively, they still find a way to win. This speaks to the Lynx culture which is firmly established. By the time they end this road trip, thy will have played nine games in sixteen days. Make of that what you will. Are there pieces missing? Yes, they are missing Karlie Samuelson, but could there be other changes? That’s a good question. 

Next up for the Sparks is a home game with the Connecticut Sun at Crypto.com Center on Sunday. From LA, the Lynx travel to Chicago for a pair of games on Saturday and Monday against the Sky.

And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.