WNBA Power Rankings: Dream Surge, Lynx and Liberty Battle Injuries

With just five weeks remaining in the WNBA regular season, the playoff race is heating up. The Atlanta Dream are on a three-game winning streak, climbing the rankings, while the Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty are grappling with significant injuries to their star players.

Minnesota Lynx (24-5)

The Lynx remain at the top of the rankings despite losing MVP front-runner Napheesa Collier to an ankle injury. Minnesota recently acquired DiJonai Carrington from the Dallas Wings, hoping her defensive prowess and playoff experience will bolster the team during Collier's absence.

Atlanta Dream (18-11)

The Dream have been impressive, securing wins over Dallas, Phoenix, and Washington without key players Rhyne Howard and Brittney Griner. If they can maintain their health, Atlanta could be a strong contender as the postseason approaches.

New York Liberty (18-10)

The Liberty are struggling without Breanna Stewart, losing four consecutive games before snapping the streak with a win over Connecticut. Emma Meesseman's season debut is a positive sign, but New York needs Stewart and other injured players back to regain their momentum.

Indiana Fever (17-12)

Indiana is on a five-game winning streak, the longest in the league, despite missing Caitlin Clark. Kelsey Mitchell and Aari McDonald have stepped up, keeping the Fever's offense alive.

Phoenix Mercury (17-11)

Phoenix had a tough week, dropping critical games to Indiana and Atlanta before securing a win against Chicago. The Mercury hope to rebound during their upcoming four-game homestand.

Seattle Storm (16-13)

The Storm are dealing with inconsistency, having not won more than two consecutive games since mid-July. Their schedule remains challenging, making it difficult to climb the rankings.

Los Angeles Sparks (12-15)

The Sparks welcomed back Cameron Brink after a 13-month absence due to an ACL tear. While it will take time for her to regain her rhythm, her return is a positive development for Los Angeles.

Las Vegas Aces (15-14)

The Aces are unpredictable, recording a 24-point win over Golden State after a 53-point loss to Minnesota. Their performance remains inconsistent as they navigate the final stretch of the season.

Golden State Valkyries (14-14)

Golden State is at .500 after a week of mixed results. Injuries to key players like Kayla Thornton and Monique Billings are a significant concern as the regular season winds down.

Washington Mystics (13-15)

The Mystics are a team to watch as the trade deadline approaches. Potential deals involving Aaliyah Edwards, Stefanie Dolson, and Brittney Sykes could shape the team's future.

Dallas Wings (8-21)

Dallas continues to struggle, losing DiJonai Carrington to Minnesota in a trade. The Wings are looking to rebuild and improve their standing in the league.

Chicago Sky (7-21)

Chicago's losing streak has extended to eight games. Angel Reese's return from injury is a positive, but the Sky remain short-handed and in need of solutions.

Connecticut Sun (5-22)

The Sun split games with the Liberty, offering a brief bright spot in an otherwise challenging season. An impending sale could bring new investment and revitalize the franchise in the coming years.