Dream vs. Lynx WNBA Prediction, Odds, and Key Players for Wednesday, July 17 (Bet on Atlanta in Rhyne Howard’s Return)
When betting on the Atlanta Dream vs. Minnesota Lynx matchup this Wednesday, understanding the odds, key players, and context is crucial.
The Atlanta Dream, currently on a rough streak, have lost nine out of their last ten games, including seven consecutive defeats, placing them at a 7-16 record for the season. However, the anticipated return of All-Star guard Rhyne Howard could be a game-changer for them, despite their challenging position in the standings.
On the other hand, the Minnesota Lynx have also faced difficulties, sliding from the top spot in the West to fifth place. Their key player, Napheesa Collier, has been dealing with a foot injury, and her status for Wednesday remains questionable. The Lynx might consider resting her until after the break, given their two-game losing streak and her importance to the team.
With the WNBA taking a nearly month-long break post-Wednesday, now is the critical time for placing bets.
Dream vs. Lynx Odds, Spread, and Total
- Spread
- Dream +8 (-110)
- Lynx -8 (-110)
- Moneyline
- Dream: +285
- Lynx: -360
- Total
- 177 (Over -110/Under -110)
- Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook.
Dream vs. Lynx How to Watch
- Date: Wednesday, July 17
- Time: 1:00 p.m. EST
- Venue: Target Center
- How to Watch: WNBA League Pass
- Dream record: 7-16
- Lynx record: 16-8
Dream vs. Lynx Injury Reports
- Atlanta Dream
- Lorela Cubaj – out
- Jordin Canada – out
- Laeticia Amihere – out
- Minnesota Lynx
- Napheesa Collier – questionable
- Olivia Epoupa – out
Key Players to Watch
Atlanta Dream
- Allisha Gray: With Howard out, Gray has stepped up, averaging 17.6 points per game in her last eight games. However, she’s in a shooting slump, missing her last nine three-point attempts, bringing her season average down to 36.0%.
Minnesota Lynx
- Alanna Smith: Should Collier sit out, Smith’s role becomes crucial. She scored 18 points in their recent loss to Indiana and is averaging 11.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game this season.
Prediction and Pick
The return of Howard is pivotal for Atlanta’s offense. The Dream, currently with the lowest offensive rating in the WNBA, have also fallen to 10th in net rating. Howard’s presence could alleviate the pressure on Tina Charles and Gray, even though she wasn’t particularly efficient before her injury.
The Lynx, facing issues without Collier, may not rush her return ahead of the break. Therefore, taking the points with the Dream seems reasonable, especially given their record. Despite their recent poor performance, Atlanta has a commendable 8-4 against the spread record on the road and a 7-7 ATS as underdogs.
Conversely, the Lynx, now with an 8-7 ATS as favorites and 7-6 ATS at home, have failed to cover in their last two games. Thus, backing Atlanta to end on a positive note before the break appears to be a sound bet.