The WNBA’s Olympic break is coming at the right time for the Atlanta Dream and Minnesota Lynx. The teams are set to meet for a matinee in Minneapolis on Wednesday, with one team guaranteed to end a losing streak.
Atlanta, with a record of 7-16, is currently on a seven-game skid, the longest in the league heading into the hiatus for the All-Star Game and Paris Olympics. The last two losses for the Dream were by double digits, highlighting the team’s struggles.
The catalysts for the Dream’s downfall are injuries to key players Rhyne Howard and Jordin Canada. Howard, a third-year star, suffered an ankle injury on June 19, putting her out indefinitely. Canada, a two-time WNBA champion, suffered a broken finger on June 30, keeping her sidelined until after the break.
In response to these injuries, the Dream signed a pair of young free agent guards, with Maya Caldwell standing out despite the team’s slump. Caldwell has been making an impact, leading the Dream with a career-high 19 points in a recent game against the Seattle Storm.
“They called me, and I got the opportunity and every time I step between those lines, whether it’s in practice or in the game, I just feel the utmost gratitude,” Caldwell said. “I just try to take advantage of all 40 minutes as best I can.”
On the other side, the Minnesota Lynx (16-8) are on a smaller skid of two games and are also dealing with a key injury. Star player Napheesa Collier’s absence has been felt, especially in the paint where she excels offensively and defensively.
Minnesota’s offense has been struggling in recent games, shooting season-low percentages against both the Seattle Storm and the Indiana Fever. Head coach Cheryl Reeve acknowledged the team’s offensive struggles and emphasized the difficulty of winning in the competitive league.
Collier’s presence on the court for Wednesday’s game is uncertain, with her return from plantar fasciitis being a gametime decision. She may make her return against Atlanta or choose to remain on the sidelines to prepare for the upcoming All-Star Game and Olympics.
In their previous meetings this season, Minnesota emerged victorious in both games against Atlanta, winning by 13 points each time.
As both teams look to break their respective losing streaks and regroup during the Olympic break, Wednesday’s matchup promises to be an intriguing battle between two teams with contrasting fortunes as of late.
