Lynx Anticipate Liberty Showdown Amidst Strong Season

The Minnesota Lynx, boasting a remarkable 22-5 record, are firmly positioned at the top of the WNBA standings as they gear up for a highly anticipated matchup against the New York Liberty. This clash, set for Wednesday night at Target Center, marks the first meeting since the Liberty triumphed in a tense Game 5 of last season's Finals.

"It should've been the first game of the season. That would've made the most sense," said Lynx star Napheesa Collier, expressing her eagerness for the rematch. "But here we are. We can't control that. We're just getting ready to play."

With the league's new 44-game schedule, teams face a tighter timeline. The Liberty, currently in second place, are navigating a challenging stretch, playing their fourth game in six days. The two teams will meet four times within an 18-day window, including matchups in New York and Minnesota.

Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve commented on the scheduling challenges, stating, "I think common sense would say that these two teams probably should've played earlier in the season, but the Rubik's Cube that is our WNBA schedule I guess is not solvable." Her frustration highlights the complexities of league logistics.

Last year's Finals were historic, featuring record attendance and viewership, culminating in the Liberty's first championship. However, lingering feelings remain for the Lynx, particularly regarding a controversial foul call on Collier that allowed Breanna Stewart to tie the game late in regulation. Reeve has been vocal about her belief that officiating decisions impacted the outcome.

"I definitely won't forget it. But I don't feel any resentment toward the Liberty team. It's not their fault," Collier reflected. "I feel like we really left that in the past. It's been so long at this point. It's a new season. We're a new team. They're a new team. So just trying to focus more on this year."

Collier downplayed any notions of revenge, stating, "It doesn't really feel like retribution for last year. It just feels like we're about to play a really good team."

However, the Liberty are grappling with injuries as they defend their title. Center Jonquel Jones recently returned from an ankle sprain, while Stewart is sidelined for a second consecutive game due to a lower leg injury sustained against Los Angeles. The team also misses Nyara Sabally, who played a crucial role in last year's Finals.

The Lynx are looking to bounce back after suffering their first regular-season home loss this year—a narrow 90-86 defeat to Atlanta. Coach Reeve's demanding style is expected to fuel their determination as they prepare for this pivotal matchup.

While the rivalry may still be developing, recent moves signal a shift in dynamics. Emma Meesseman, the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP, has agreed to join the Liberty once her visa is secured, having also considered Minnesota and Phoenix.

Reeve's response to Meesseman's decision was lighthearted yet pointed: "She made the wrong choice."