WNBA Second Half Showdown: Can the Lynx Hold Their Lead? Key Questions for Every Team

WNBA Power Rankings: Key Questions for Every Team as the Season Resumes

The WNBA season resumes with the Minnesota Lynx leading the pack, but questions loom for every team as they head into the second half. Here’s a breakdown of the biggest challenges facing each team:

1. Minnesota Lynx (20-4)

Key Question: Can their offense sustain a championship run? The Lynx boast the second-best scoring average in the league (84.7 PPG) while holding opponents to a league-low 75 PPG. However, coach Cheryl Reeve may be concerned about the offense's vulnerability, especially if opponents focus on MVP favorite Napheesa Collier.

2. New York Liberty (15-6)

Key Question: Can they overtake the Lynx for first place? With all four regular-season meetings against the Lynx still to come, the Liberty have a chance to close the gap. The return of Jonquel Jones and the addition of Emma Meesseman could make New York's frontcourt the most formidable in the league.

3. Phoenix Mercury (15-7)

Key Question: Will Satou Sabally and Kahleah Copper return strong from injuries? Despite injuries, the Mercury are in third place, led by All-Star Alyssa Thomas. The return of Sabally and Copper will be crucial for their championship aspirations.

4. Indiana Fever (12-11)

Key Question: How much of the second half will Caitlin Clark play? Clark has missed significant time due to injury, and the Fever may take a conservative approach to ensure her long-term health.

5. Seattle Storm (14-9)

Key Question: Can Ezi Magbegor provide more offense? Magbegor's scoring has dipped this season, and the Storm need her to step up to improve their eighth-ranked scoring average.

6. Washington Mystics (11-11)

Key Question: Can rookies Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen finish strong? Both rookies have been key contributors, but fatigue could be a factor as the season progresses.

7. Atlanta Dream (13-9)

Key Question: Will Rhyne Howard be effective upon return? Howard has been a standout this season, but her return from injury will be critical for the Dream's success.

8. Las Vegas Aces (11-11)

Key Question: Can NaLyssa Smith take pressure off A'ja Wilson? Smith's improvement could provide much-needed support for Wilson and the Aces' frontcourt.

9. Golden State Valkyries (10-12)

Key Question: Can they snap out of their July slump? After a strong June, the Valkyries have struggled in July and face a tough road schedule.

10. Los Angeles Sparks (8-14)

Key Question: Will Cameron Brink return this season? Brink's return could boost the Sparks' playoff chances, but her recovery timeline remains uncertain.

11. Chicago Sky (7-15)

Key Question: Can Angel Reese sustain her offensive surge? Reese has been on a scoring tear, and her continued success will be vital for the Sky.

12. Dallas Wings (6-17)

Key Question: How much progress can the rookie guards make? Paige Bueckers, Aziaha James, and JJ Quinerly have been bright spots for the Wings, and their development will shape the team's future.