Tag: MINNESOTA LYNX

Minnesota Lynx 2025 WNBA Season Preview: Why Over 26.5 Wins – By ASA

The Minnesota Lynx are being undervalued in the 2025 WNBA betting markets, with a win total set at Over 26.5 wins. Coming off a stellar 30-10 regular season in 2024 that saw them reach the WNBA Finals, the Lynx return the core of their roster, including MVP contender Napheesa Collier. Bolstered by elite metrics from last season—third-best net rating (+8.0), fourth-best effective field goal percentage (51.8%), and third-best scoring differential (+6.4 PPG)—Minnesota is primed to dominate again. Here’s why betting the Over 26.5 wins is a no-brainer for the 2025 season.

2024 Recap: A Dominant Foundation

The Lynx were a powerhouse in the 2024 regular season, finishing with 30 wins and a 75% win percentage, second only to the New York Liberty. Their success was built on a balanced attack and suffocating defense, as evidenced by their elite statistical profile:

• Net Rating: +8.0 (3rd in WNBA)
  Minnesota’s net rating, which measures point differential per 100 possessions, was among the league’s best, trailing only the Liberty and Las Vegas Aces. This metric reflects their ability to outplay opponents on both ends of the floor, a hallmark of championship contenders.
• Effective Field Goal Percentage: 51.8% (4th in WNBA)
  The Lynx were highly efficient offensively, with an eFG% that accounted for the added value of three-pointers. Their balanced scoring attack, led by Collier’s versatility and contributions from guards like Kayla McBride (14.9 PPG, 38.7% 3P), ensured they maximized their possessions.
• Scoring Differential: +6.4 PPG (3rd in WNBA)
  Minnesota outscored opponents by an average of 6.4 points per game, a testament to their ability to control games. They ranked fourth in offensive rating (103.5) and third in defensive rating (95.5), showcasing their two-way dominance.

The Lynx also excelled in clutch situations, posting a 15-5 record in games decided by five points or less, per WNBA.com stats. Their ability to close out tight games, combined with their statistical excellence, made them a formidable force. Despite falling to the Liberty in the 2024 Finals, Minnesota’s 30-win season was no fluke, and their returning roster suggests they’ll remain elite.

Continuity Is Key: Returning Core and Napheesa Collier’s MVP Case

The Lynx return the majority of their 2024 roster, including their starting five: Napheesa Collier, Kayla McBride, Courtney Williams, Bridget Carleton, and Alanna Smith. This continuity is a massive advantage in a league where chemistry and familiarity often separate good teams from great ones.

• Napheesa Collier: The 28-year-old forward is coming off a career-best 2024 season, averaging 20.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.9 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game on 49.2% shooting. Collier ranked third in MVP voting and earned All-WNBA First Team honors. Her two-way dominance—she’s also a Defensive Player of the Year candidate—makes her the engine of this team. Recent rankings from Her Hoop Stats place her among the top three players in the WNBA, and her performance in the Unrivaled 3×3 league (where she won MVP) signals she’s only getting better.
• Supporting Cast: The Lynx’s depth is a strength. Kayla McBride provides elite shooting (38.7% from three), while Courtney Williams (8.5 assists per game) orchestrates the offense. Bridget Carleton (39.1% 3P) and Alanna Smith (1.5 blocks per game) add defensive versatility and floor spacing. This group’s cohesion, honed over a full season and playoff run, should lead to an even sharper start in 2025.

The only concern is health, Collier was the only starter to miss significant time in 2024. However, Minnesota’s depth and coaching under Cheryl Reeve—the 2024 WNBA Coach of the Year—mitigate this risk. Reeve’s system maximizes player strengths, as evidenced by the Lynx’s top-tier metrics.

Why Over 26.5 Wins Is a Safe Bet

The Lynx’s 30-win season in 2024 sets a high bar, but the 26.5-win line feels disrespectful given their returning talent and statistical dominance. If this was last season, to hit the Over, Minnesota needs a 27-13 record or better in the 40-game season—a 67.5% win percentage. That’s a step back from their 75% clip last year, but well within reach for a team that hasn’t lost any key pieces. Now factor in they get 4-more games added to their regular season schedule in 2025 which should make getting to 27 wins that much easier.

Consider the following:

• Favorable Schedule Dynamics: Minnesota’s 17-3 home record in 2024 (best in the league) gives them a strong foundation. Winning 16-18 home games and splitting their road games (11-11) gets them to 27 wins.
• Motivation and Experience: After coming up short in the Finals, the Lynx are hungry. Collier’s MVP candidacy and Reeve’s leadership ensure this team won’t rest on its laurels.

Final Prediction

The Minnesota Lynx are a championship-caliber team being slept on at Over 26.5 wins. With Napheesa Collier leading an MVP-caliber campaign, a cohesive roster, and elite metrics like a +8.0 net rating, 51.8% eFG%, and +6.4 PPG scoring differential, they’re built to win 27-30 games in 2025. Bet the Over with confidence—Minnesota is ready to prove the doubters wrong.