Western Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Portland at 8:30 pm et on Saturday.

The Storm have to feel like enough is enough at this point. They've lost 10 straight games and that's been thanks in large part to an absolutely brutal schedule. Seattle has had a couple of days off to stew over its most recent setback, a loss but ATS cover against the Liberty in New York, and I look for it to rebound as it finally draws a winnable game on Saturday. Portland is probably feeling pretty good about itself after it snapped its five-game slide with a home win over Toronto on Thursday. The Fire remain one of the league's weakest defensive teams and I believe the Storm are capable of taking advantage. Note that this is a 'double-revenge' spot for Seattle after it dropped a pair of close results against Portland earlier in the season (both games were decided by only five points). Take Seattle (10*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Indiana at 7 pm et on Thursday.

I really like the way this spot sets up for the Aces who will be looking to avenge a pair of earlier lopsided defeats at home against the Fever. Indiana has been idle since Sunday's loss in Minnesota which snapped its five-game winning streak. The Fever have been awful defensively in recent weeks, allowing seven straight opponents to connect on 30+ field goals. However, their offense has been red hot to say the last. I do think the three-day layoff hurts their cause here, as does the fact that they're facing one of the league's better defensive teams in the Aces. While known for their offense, the Aces have limited the opposition to 44% or worse shooting in three of their last four contests. Like Indiana, Las Vegas has also been red hot offensively, making good on 32 or more field goals in six straight games heading in to this one. Take Las Vegas (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Seattle plus the points over New York at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

The Liberty took the front half of this two-game set in Brooklyn by 12 points on Monday. Credit New York for battling through a tough spot (returning home on one day rest following a three-game in five-day western road trip) but that lopsided victory had more to do with Seattle's poor shooting performance than anything else. New York allowed 70+ field goal attempts for the fourth time in its last six games and if Wednesday's game plays out similarly as I expect it to, I'm confident the Storm can stay inside the inflated pointspread. The Liberty have shot the lights out (50% or better) in three of their last four games, yet Monday's ATS win marked just their first victory against the number in nine games. Seattle has held three straight opponents to 68 or fewer field goal attempts and mired in a nine-game losing streak including 0-2 on its current road trip, I expect it to play with some desperation on Wednesday. New York will be glancing ahead at three consecutive off days before it hosts Las Vegas in a much-anticipated matchup on Sunday. Take Seattle (10*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Las Vegas at 1 pm et on Saturday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the Sky on Saturday as they look to extend their four-game ATS winning streak. They'll have the advantage of staying home after rallying for a win over the Sun two nights ago. Meanwhile, the Aces will be travelling after posting a thrilling but somewhat controversial 104-99 home victory over the Liberty on Thursday. Las Vegas has been lighting up the scoreboard lately, putting up 98 points or more in four straight games. It won three of those four contests but went just 1-1 on the road splitting games in Toronto and Washington. This is arguably a more difficult matchup than either of those with the Sky playing some of their best basketball of the season. Casual bettors love to back the Aces and I think the underdog is the way to go in this matchup as Chicago is capable of taking this game down to the wire at the very least. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on Portland plus the points over Indiana at 10 pm et on Friday.

Indiana looks invincible right now on the heels of four straight wins including three in a row ATS, scoring more than 100 points in all four contests. I think the Fever will be in tough on Friday, however, as they look to keep it rolling in Portland. The Fire have lost three games in a row but are actually 7-2 ATS over their last nine games. They are coming off an ATS defeat in a tough spot in Las Vegas last time out but have dropped the cash in consecutive games just once dating back to June 13th. This will be the third meeting between these two teams this season with the home team having gone 2-0 SU and ATS. Of note, the Fever are into uncharted territory riding a season-high three-game ATS winning streak. We'll call for the Fire to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Portland (8*).

My selection is on Golden State minus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Valkyries have been a terrific bet this season as they're one of the league's elite teams but not necessarily thought of as that, resulting in them being undervalued most of the time. They do enter this contest off consecutive ATS defeats at home against the upstart Mystics before the All-Star break, including an outright 'upset' loss on July 20th. They've had over a week to stew over that defeat, which snapped their nine-game winning streak (7-2 ATS), so we'll get behind them in this bounce-back spot in Phoenix. The Mercury are one of the league's worst teams but did go into the break on the heels of consecutive wins. Of course those victories came against two teams that have been struggling mightily in the Sun and Sparks. Look for Phoenix to be brought back to reality here. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Atlanta plus the points over Dallas at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Dream were essentially an auto-fade for a few weeks in June and early July as they dropped the cash in eight straight games, going 1-7 SU over that stretch. They did right the ship prior to the All-Star break, reeling off three consecutive victories while going 2-1 ATS. They've already handled Dallas twice previously this season, taking the first two matchups by five points here in Big D and 17 points at home. Of course, both of those contests came back in May and have long been forgotten by most casual WNBA bettors. The Wings were a terrific bet in the first month of the season but not so much since as they've gone 6-11 ATS over their last 17 games including 1-3 ATS in their last four. While both teams have really struggled defensively in recent weeks, I do have more confidence in the Dream figuring it out, noting that it has held an incredible 22 straight opponents to 67 or fewer field goal attempts. Dallas on the other hand has been matador-like at that end of the floor and lost both previous meetings in this series despite holding Atlanta to fewer than 70 field goal attempts in both contests. Take Atlanta (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over New York at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

We'll go right back to fading the Liberty coming out of the All-Star break as they enter Tuesday's contest in Los Angeles on a six-game ATS slide. They did right the ship in a sense entering the break, securing consecutive one-point wins over the Wings and Sky, failing to sniff out a cover in either game. The Sparks hopefully used the break as a reset of sorts as they have dropped five games in a row, going 1-4 ATS over that stretch. Keep in mind, four of those five games came on the road and the other was a narrow four-point home defeat against the Mercury just before the break. These two teams have squared off just once previously this season with the Sparks prevailing in a 98-97 thriller here in Los Angeles on June 21st. Take Los Angeles (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Toronto at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

I think this is a statement game for the Lynx as while they did enter the All-Star break on a seven-game winning streak, I don't think they were overly happy with their performance over that stretch. Minnesota is actually a woeful 3-9 ATS over its last 12 games. It faced a rather easy schedule leading up to the break and seemed to get complacent, narrowly avoiding upsets against ht elikes of the Sun, Mercury, Fire and Storm on a few occasions. The break presented an opportunity for a rest and I look for the Lynx to come out strong to start the second half. They draw another favorable matchup against a reeling Tempo squad. Injuries have played a role but the fact is Toronto has lost 11 of its last 14 games and checks in 2-6 ATS over its last eight contests and 5-10 ATS over its last 15. These two teams actually met once previously this season but that's long been forgotten by most casual bettors. The Lynx rolled to a 100-72 win over Toronto right here at home back on May 21st. Toronto had been playing much better and had all hands on deck back then, off to a 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS start to the campaign before the lopsided defeat. Take Minnesota (10*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Washington at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday.

I've pointed out on more than one occasion this season that Washington is better-suited to an underdog role than laying points. The last time we saw the Mystics favored was on July 16th, when they were blown out by 19 points at home against the Fire (as -6.5 point favorites). Washington does enter this game off consecutive wins although it's worth noting that it has delivered just one previous three-game winning streak this season. Connecticut was flat out embarrassed in its last game before the All-Star break, dropping a 123-88 decision in Indiana. The Sun have still been one of the league's best bets lately, however, going 7-3 ATS over their last 10 contests. These two teams have split a pair of meetings so far this season. Look for the Sun to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Indiana at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Sun were written off by most bettors early in the season as they got off to a terrible start, looking like they already had one eye on next year's move to Houston. However, they've turned it around lately, going 5-4 SU and 7-2 ATS over their last nine games. Here, they'll be looking to avenge an earlier 10-point defeat at home against Indiana. That loss came at a time when they were in the midst of a season-long seven-game losing streak. Indiana checks into this game off a 20-point rout of the Liberty on Saturday. That snapped its two-game ATS slide. I still don't like the way the Fever are playing defensively as they've allowed 12 of their last 15 opponents to connect on 30+ field goals. Connecticut has shown the ability to effectively shorten proceedings, holding each of its last five opponents to 65 or fewer field goal attempts and 15 of its last 18 foes to 31 or fewer made field goals. Take Connecticut (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Chicago plus the points over New York at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

This is a difficult spot for New York as it had to extend its road trip after a stop in Dallas was postponed on July 16th. That puts the Liberty in a two-in-three situation with travel on Wednesday and they'll be facing a Sky squad that has been playing much better basketball lately. Chicago gave Atlanta everything it could handle in a two-point loss but cover on Friday. That marked the Sky's second straight ATS victory and pushed them to 10-5 ATS over their last 15 contests. New York on the other hand entered Monday's game sporting a 3-9 ATS mark over its last 12 games. Chicago will be out for revenge in this spot after it dropped a tough 96-95 decision at home against New York back on June 17th in the only previous meeting between these two teams this season. Take Chicago (10*).

My selection is on Phoenix minus the points over Connecticut at 7 pm et on Sunday.

The Sun ‘upset’ the Mercury on Friday night in Phoenix but we’ll call for Phoenix to repay the favor in Sunday’s rematch. Connecticut remains a lame duck franchise as it will be moving to Houston ahead of next season. With that being said the Sun have been playing well lately, cashing tickets with consistency. However Friday’s result only serves to set us up with value on the home side here as the Mercury look to avoid the embarrassment of a second straight loss to the Sun at home. Take Phoenix (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Washington plus the points over Golden State at 8:30 pm et on Saturday. 

While we've made money supporting both of these teams to be sure, I don't like the spot for the Valkyries as they return home laying a significant number of points and riding an eight-game winning streak. Golden State is just two days removed from an 'upset' victory in Indiana and we cashed with it in that contest. Meanwhile, Washington is sure to be in a foul mood after getting handed an 'upset' defeat at home against Portland on Wednesday. The Mystics have lost consecutive games just once dating back to June 12th. These two teams last met on June 28th and Golden State prevailed 62-49. It's worth noting that the Mystics were missing Sonia Citron in that contest. Look for Washington to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Washington (10*).

My selection is on Portland plus the points over Washington at 7 pm et on Thursday.

I really like the way this game sets up for Portland. The Fire have split the first two games on their current road trip, most recently dropping a matinee affair in Connecticut on Tuesday. Washington checks in off consecutive wins at home against Seattle and on the road against Toronto. As I've noted previously, I believe the Mystics are better-suited to an underdog role and don't feel they should be laying this many points against a scrappy opponent like Portland. In fact, these two teams just met on June 28th and it took multiple overtimes for Washington to pull out the narrowest of one-point wins, at home no less. Of note, while Washington owns the better overall record in this matchup this season, Portland has faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. Take Portland (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Indiana at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Valkyries have been idle since Friday and enter this road trip closer riding a seven-game winning streak. There's really been non flaws in their game during their current run. In fact, the Valkyries might be the best defensive team we've seen in the WNBA in years, noting that they've held seven straight opponents to 26 or fewer made field goals and 11 of their last 14 foes to 27 or less. Indiana, on the other hand, returns home off back-to-back 'upset' wins in Phoenix and Las Vegas and has won four of its last five games overall. The Fever have been matador-like defensively, however, allowing seven of their last 10 opponents to knock down 33 or more field goals. They're actually entering uncharted territory here as they've posted two straight ATS victories three times previously this season but haven't managed to stretch any of those streaks to three. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Minnesota at 9 pm et on Monday.

This may seem crazy to say after they just lost by 48 points in Las Vegas on Saturday, but I don't think the Mercury belong in this pointspread range. They enter this contest admittedly reeling off three straight losses both SU and ATS. This is a team that has sprung three outright 'upset' wins on the road this season, however, and Monday's opponent, the Lynx, checks in just 2-5 ATS over its last seven games. Since going on a tear in late May and early June (seven wins by 15 points or more from May 27th to June 17th), the Lynx have posted the following results; won by six, lost by five, won by two, won by eight, lost by 13, lost by one, won by six and won by five. Not once over that stretch did they sniff a pointspread cover of the type of number they're laying on Monday. We'll take our chances with Phoenix here. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Washington at 3 pm et on Sunday.

The Mystics aren't well-suited to laying points as they operate one of the slowest-paced offenses in the league. Washington has hoisted up 62 or fewer field goal attempts in seven of its last eight games. The only exception over that stretch came in a multi-overtime game against the Fire. Seattle got tripped up in Atlanta on Thursday as it was in the wrong place at the wrong time facing a good Dream squad that was on an extended losing streak. The Storm were coming off an 'upset' victory in Los Angeles on Monday. While it's been a down year for Seattle it hasn't been all doom and gloom from a pointspread perspective. The Storm are actually 9-3 ATS over their last 12 games. The Mystics on the other hand have dropped the cash in three of their last four contests. Take Seattle (8*).

My selection is on Toronto plus the points over Dallas at 3 pm et on Sunday.

This will be the first ever meeting between these two teams and I think the oddsmakers have missed the mark. The Tempo have been undervalued for much of the season and I think that's the case again here. Toronto has had a full week to stew over last Sunday's home loss to the Mercury. Meanwhile, Dallas is mired in a six-game ATS losing streak having gone just 3-3 SU over that stretch. The Wings narrowly avoided an 'upset' defeat two nights ago in Connecticut. They've allowed six straight opponents to connect on 29 or more field goals and if there's one thing we know about the Tempo it's that they can produce offensively. Look for Toronto to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Toronto (8*).

My selection is on Seattle plus the points over New York at 10 pm et on Thursday. 

What a difference a game makes. The majority of bettors were down on the Liberty entering Tuesday's showdown with the red hot Aces in Las Vegas but New York won that game and now draws plenty of support as a big favorite on the road against the Storm. Seattle is one of the league's worst teams but not from an ATS perspective. The Storm check in 5-1 ATS over their last six games and 11-7 ATS overall on the season. Blowout defeats have been few and far between here at home and off a near-miss in overtime against the Wings last time out, I look for the Storm to hang again in this matchup. Note that the Liberty remain vulnerable defensively having allowed eight of their last nine opponents to get off 70+ field goal attempts. Seattle is well-positioned to take advantage having connected on 30+ field goals in four of its last six contests. Take Seattle (8*).

My selection is on Chicago minus the points over Portland at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Sky grabbed headlines as they lost a season-high sixth straight game in blowout fashion against the lowly Sun in Connecticut on Monday. Lost in that sixth straight defeat was the fact that Chicago had covered the spread in four straight games prior. It's not as if the Sky have been consistently playing awful basketball - they've certainly run into a tough schedule recently, notwithstanding that contest against the Sun. I do look for Chicago to bounce back at home on Wednesday. Portland has been idle since defeating Seattle back on June 17th. You would have to go back to May 25th to find the last time the Fire won a game on the road as they've gone 0-3 since. You would also have to go back to May 23rd to 27th to find the last time Portland reeled off consecutive ATS victories. It's easy to forget that these two teams squared off back in their respective season-openers with Chicago rolling to a 98-83 win in the Pacific Northwest. This is the front half of a two-game set in the Windy City and I look for the Sky to gain the upper hand. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Indiana at 8 pm et on Monday.

This will be the first meeting between these two teams this season and I think the oddsmakers are having a difficult time setting an accurate line. The Fever are always going to draw plenty of support from casual bettors. They'll be looking to bounce back off consecutive losses against the Dream. My concern with Indiana right now is its defense or lack thereof. The Fever have allowed five straight opponents to knock down 32 or more field goals. Phoenix has shown some signs of life recently, snapping a four-game slide with a blowout win over Seattle last time out and having connected on 30+ field goals in three of its last five games. I look for the Mercury to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Atlanta minus the points over Toronto at 7:30 pm et on Monday.

The Dream are playing as well as anyone right now as they check in off three straight wins both SU and ATS. I like their chances of keeping it rolling against a Tempo squad that has endured a tough stretch and continues to play without some key contributors due to injury. Toronto did manage to snap its three-game slide with a come-from-behind 101-97 win on Friday but that came at the expense of the lowly Sun, one of the league's worst teams. The Tempo actually just faced the Dream a little over a week ago and the result was a lopsided 102-77 loss, at home no less. I don't see much changing in this rematch in Atlanta. Take Atlanta (8*).

My selection is on Washington plus the points over New York at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

These two teams just met on this same floor last weekend as the Liberty rolled to an 86-64 victory. Washington simply had an awful shooting day, connecting on only 24-of-71 field goal attempts. I expect the Mystics to turn in a stronger performance in this rematch noting that they should be feeling pretty good about themselves after rebounding with an 88-81 victory, albeit against the lowly Sun, on Wednesday. While New York has been rolling, it continues to struggle defensively, allowing four of its last six opponents to knock down 32 or more field goals. Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

We'll lay the points with the Aces as they look to avenge an earlier blowout loss at home against the Mercury. Las Vegas checks in off a lopsided defeat in Dallas two nights ago. Of note, the Aces have endured just one previous ATS losing streak this season. Phoenix has dropped the cash in consecutive games. That's nothing new as the Mercury have endured two previous ATS losing streaks this season, lasting three and seven games. Phoenix shot incredibly well against Los Angeles last time out but still lost by nine points in overtime. Prior to that the Mercury had gotten off 65 or fewer field goal attempts in seven straight games. That's just not going to cut it against an Aces team that figures to be in a foul mood off a poor offensive showing. Las Vegas has yet to be held to fewer than 30 made field goals in consecutive games this season. Take Las Vegas (8*).

Favorite of the Month. My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Portland at 8 pm et on Monday.

I'm not sure the betting marketplace is properly quantifying the Lynx's dominance this season. Minnesota does check in off a hard-fought loss in Las Vegas on Saturday but that only served to snap its eight-game winning streak. The Lynx are still 7-2 ATS over their last nine games and I look for them to dispose of the expansion Fire without much difficulty on Monday. Portland is coming off an 'upset' win at home against Dallas on Saturday. The Fire were fortunate that the Wings shot poorly in that contest. Note that Portland has now allowed its last three opponents to hoist up 75, 72 and 74 field goal attempts - that's what I like to call 'matador-like' defense. The Lynx are poised to take advantage as they enter having knocked down 37, 38 and 36 field goals over their last three games. Take Minnesota (10*).

My selection is on Washington plus the points over New York at 3 pm et on Sunday.

The Mystics won but failed to cover against the Tempo on Friday. While it hasn't been a banner start for Washington, it has actually suffered just one previous ATS losing streak this season as it dropped the cash in back-to-back games on May 18th and 24th. New York is in off a double-digit win and cover in Atlanta on Thursday. The Liberty have put together just one previous ATS winning streak, a four-gamer from May 27th to June 6th. I think there's a path for the Mystics to effectively shorten proceedings on Sunday, noting that they've held seven straight opponents to 66 or fewer field goal attempts. New York on the other hand has yielded 70+ field goal attempts to the opposition in four straight contests. The first meeting between these two teams this season went New York's way back on May 10th but the margin of victory was only five points, albeit in Washington. Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Los Angeles at 10 pm et on Saturday.

The Sparks do own the better record in this matchup this season but the Mercury have faced a considerably more difficult schedule by most metrics. Phoenix will be out for 'revenge' on Saturday after it was 'upset' at home against Los Angeles back on May 21st. I feel the Sparks are the more vulnerable side defensively, noting that they've allowed 30+ made field goals in three of thier last four and five of their last seven games overall. That first meeting went their way thanks to an exceptional shooting performance (31-of-64 from the field) while the Mercury couldn't take advantage of their 69 field goal attempts, knocking down only 29. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Portland plus the points over Dallas at 8:30 pm et on Saturday.

You would be hard-pressed to find may bettors looking to back the Fire on Saturday. Portland has lost four straight games both SU and ATS and hosts a Dallas team that checks in off a blowout win over Phoenix two nights ago and has lost just twice in its last nine contests. We'll take a flyer on the home side, however, noting that the Wings are 0-3 SU and ATS when coming off a game that saw them shoot 50% or better from the field this season, as is the case here. Of note, the Wings have allowed five of their six opponents away from home to connect on 32 or more field goals. I think the door is open for the Fire to take this game down to the wire at the very least. Take Portland (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota plus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Saturday.

We'll grab the points with the Lynx in this showdown between two of the WNBA's best teams in Las Vegas. Both teams are into uncharted territory as the Lynx ride an eight-game winning streak while the Aces have reeled off five straight victories. Minnesota has the rest advantage here having not played since Tuesday's 100-76 dismantling of a good Dallas team at home. Las Vegas won in similar blowout fashion on the road against Portland on Thursday. I do think we're seeing some cracks in the Aces armor right now as they've allowed their last two opponents to knock down 33 and 36 field goals. You would have to go back 10 games to find the last time the Lynx allowed the opposition to connect on more than 30 field goals. I think the case can be made for the wrong team being favored in this, the first matchup of the season between these teams. Take Minnesota (8*).

My selection is on Golden State minus the points over Seattle at 10 pm et on Friday.

These two teams matched up previously in their first game of the season and the result was a 91-80 Golden State victory here in Seattle. The winning margin could have been even bigger were it not for the Valkyries having an off shooting night, connecting on just 31-of-74 field goal attempts. They catch Seattle playing matador-like defense leading up to this rematch. The Storm have allowed four of their last five opponents to hoist up 70+ field goal attempts. They lost by only five and covered the spread against the Sparks two nights ago but that was thanks to Los Angeles shooting a miserable 38.7% from the field. Golden State snapped its two-game slide with a win but non-cover at home against Phoenix on Tuesday. The Valkyries have now lost consecutive games ATS and that puts them in uncharted territory as it marks their longest such ATS skid of the season. Meanwhile, the Storm have reeled off back-to-back ATS wins and that two-game ATS winning streak matches their longest of the season. The last time they won consecutive games ATS they followed it up with a 14-point loss at home against Washington on May 27th. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Portland plus the points over Las Vegas at 10 pm et on Thursday.

The Fire have endured three straight losses both SU and ATS but they've had three full days to stew over Sunday's 89-72 defeat in Los Angeles and I look for them to rebound at home against the surging Aces on Thursday. Las Vegas has to be feeling good about itself after reeling off four straight victories, going 3-1 ATS over that stretch. Of note, the Aces are entering uncharted territory as their four-game winning streak matches their longest of the season to date. I do think there's a path for the Fire to at the very least take this one down to the wire, noting that Las Vegas has been fairly forgiving defensively in recent games, allowing three of its last four opponents to hoist up 72 or more field goal attempts. Take Portland (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Indiana at 7 pm et on Thursday.

The Fever are coming off a thrilling 78-76 win in Washington last time out but are just 1-4 ATS over their last five contests. I think they're in tough trying to cover lofty pointspreads like the one we're working with on Thursday, noting that they've been held to 30 or fewer made field goals in seven straight contests. Chicago snapped its seven-game ATS slide (depending on your number) last time out but still lost its second straight game. I do think the Sky are a better team than they've shown in recent weeks. Remember, they got off to a 3-1 start to the campaign including 'upset' road wins over Golden State and Minnesota. Look for them to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Chicago (8*).

Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Atlanta at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the Sky on Tuesday as they welcome former teammate Angel Reese back to town as a member of the Dream. This will mark the first meeting between these two teams this season and I can't help but feel the oddsmakers have missed the mark. Atlanta does check in off a blowout win over Washington on Saturday (we won with the Dream in that 109-77 rout). Of note, Atlanta is just 2-3 ATS in five road games to date this season. Chicago has dropped the cash in an incredible seven straight games, going 1-6 SU over that stretch. The Sky did manage to win their most recent home games, albeit against the lowly Sun on June 5th. I don't think Chicago has played quite as poorly as its record indicates. The opposition has taken a volume-shooting approach against the Sky, getting off more than 70 field goal attempts in four straight and seven of their last eight contests. With that being said, I'm not convinced Atlanta will take the same approach here, perhaps to its own detriment. Note that the Dream have hoisted uπ 68 or fewer field goal attempts in seven straight games. On the flip side, Atlanta has held six straight opponents to 67 or fewer field goal attempts with all six of those foes connecting on 43.9% or better and three knocking down more than 47% of its attempts. Take Chicago (10*).

My selection is on Washington plus the points over Indiana at 7 pm et on Monday.

Bettors continue to flock to the Fever, despite the fact that they're off to a disappointing 5-5 SU and 4-6 ATS start to the season. While known for their offensive prowess, they've been held to 30 or fewer made field goals in six straight games. Washington figures to be in a foul mood after suffering an ugly 109-77 loss in Atlanta on Saturday (we won with the Dream in that game). The Mystics have alternated wins and losses over their last four games. The fact that this is a 'revenge' spot for Indiana has been factored into this line in my opinion. Of course 'revenge' is generally a dish best served at home and I expect that to hold true on Monday. Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Toronto at 3 pm et on Sunday.

This is undoubtedly a game the Sky have had circled on their calendar after dropping a 111-104 'upset' decision at home against the Tempo back on May 27th. Chicago enters this contest on a six-game ATS slide but I look for it to snap that skid here. Note that the Sky did like what they saw from the Tempo defense in that previous meeting as they got off a season-high 75 field goal attempts. It's not as if they shot poorly either, connecting on 48% of those attempts. The problem was the Tempo quite simply shot the lights out (37-of-66 from the field). I don't anticipate the Tempo replicating that performance here. While the Tempo do own the slightly better overall record in this matchup this season, the Sky have faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. Take Chicago (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Atlanta minus the points over Washington at 6 pm et on Saturday.

The knee-jerk reaction is probably to grab the generous helping of points with the Mystics on Saturday as they're fresh off a 90-72 dismantling of Chicago last time out while the Dream check in off a double-digit loss in Indiana two nights ago. We'll go the other way and lay the points with Atlanta, noting that it has yet to drop the cash in consecutive games this season while Washington has put together just one ATS winning streak, that coming in its first three games of the campaign back in early May. The Dream not only own the better overall record in this matchup this season but they've also faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. Look for Atlanta to bounce back with a decisive victory at home. Take Atlanta (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Dallas at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Sparks have dropped consecutive games both SU and ATS including a lopsided defeat against the revenge-minded Aces on Tuesday. The shots simply haven't been falling for Los Angeles following a strong start to the campaign offensively. I'm confident we'll see the Sparks bounce back on Friday, however, as they host the Wings. Dallas checks in feeling good about itself off three straight victories both SU and ATS. That puts the Wings into uncharted territory as both streaks represent season-highs. We'll back the Sparks as an unpopular home underdog on Friday. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Portland plus the points over Golden State at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Fire aren't your typical expansion team. They were quickly dismissed by casual bettors after their season-opening blowout loss against Chicago, noto to mention a 2-3 SU and 1-4 ATS start. Since then, however, they've gone 4-1 SU and ATS including a 100-84 rout of a good Indiana team last time out. The case can be made for them catching the Valkyries in the wrong place at the wrong time as Golden State checks in off a double-digit defeat at home against Las Vegas on Sunday and has gone 2-0 SU and ATS after a loss this season. I simply feel the Valkyries are laying too many points in this spot, noting that the Fire have done a tremendous job of shortening proceedings, holding all 10 opponents to fewer than 70 field goal attempts this season and three of their last four foes to 24 or fewer made field goals. Golden State hoisted up 74 field goal attempts on Sunday but that was thanks to trying to chase down the Aces all afternoon long. That type of pace isn't really typical of this team. I think the potential is there for this to be a slower-paced affair, and that lends itself to a play on the underdog catching a generous number of points. Take Portland (8*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Minnesota at 10 pm et on Monday.

The Lynx are rolling right now, riding a season-high four-game SU and ATS winning streak. They actually shot poorly (28-of-71 from the field) on Friday in Chicago but still won by 21 points as the Sky were far worse offensively (20-for-70). The Lynx continue to give up more scoring opportunities than you might like as they've allowed 70+ field goal attempts in five of eight games to date including three of their last four contests. The Mercury are reeling off five straight defeats both SU and ATS. They certainly had their opportunities on Friday but couldn't make good on enough to keep pace with the Liberty, dropping their second game in a row in New York. Phoenix has had the weekend to stew over that loss and its recent slide. This will be a 'revenge' spot for the Mercury after they dropped an 88-84 'upset' decision at home against the Lynx on May 12th. Keep in mind, Phoenix was playing its third game in four nights in three different cities in that spot. It actually got off 71 field goal attempts compared to Minnesota's 64 but the Lynx quite simply shot the lights out (50% from the field). The fact that game was close at all was telling in my opinion and I think Phoenix can get over the hump in this rematch. Take Phoenix (10*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Thursday.

I think the case can be made for these two teams being mirror images of one another in some sense so far this season. Their records are almost identical but the Wings have actually faced the more difficult schedule by most metrics. I like the consistency Dallas has shown at both ends of the floor. It checks in having knocked down 28 or more field goals in all seven games and 30+ in five of those contests. The Wings figure to be afforded their share of scoring opportunities in this one as Las Vegas has yielded 70+ field goal attempts to the opposition in five of six games to date, only holding its most recent opponent, Los Angeles, to below that number win in a game where the Sparks shot the lights out (37-of-67 from the field). The Aces have been rolling offensively, making good on 43, 39, 35, 31 and 34 field goals over their last five games but still enter this contest on a three-game ATS losing streak. Note that Dallas has done a terrific job of limiting its opponents scoring opportunities, allowing fewer than 70 field goal attempts in five of seven games to date. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Washington minus the points over Seattle at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

Seattle rolled to a 97-85 win over Washington in the front half of this two-game set on Sunday but I won't hesitate to go the other way and back the Mystics in Wednesday's rematch. Washington has of course had a couple of days to stew over that result - its second straight loss both SU and ATS following an encouraging 2-1 SU and 3-0 ATS start to the campaign. I do think the Mystics are the better team in this matchup and we're able to back them at a discount here following Sunday's stunning result. The Storm have won back-to-back games both SU and ATS but that marks their first such streaks of the season. They're still just 3-4 SU on the campaign. Of note, the Storm play with a rather small margin for error as they've gotten off 63 or fewer field goal attempts in six of seven games to date. They've strung together consecutive strong defensive efforts but have still allowed four of seven opponents to make good on 30+ field goals this season. Take Washington (9*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Portland at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

Portland is coming off consecutive 'upset' wins in Toronto and New York while Connecticut has been blown out in back-to-back games against Seattle and Golden State so it's not surprising that the expansion Fire are receiving plenty of support in the betting markets leading up to this game. I can't help but feel Portland is out a little ahead of its skis as a considerable favorite in this matchup, however. The Sun are 1-7 on the season but have faced a considerably more difficult schedule than the Fire by most metrics. Porland has thrived offensively over its last two games but it has been afforded a ton of scoring opportunities over that stretch. In an obvious letdown spot returning home off that successful road trip and facing a slow-paced Connecticut squad that has held five of eight opponents to 63 or fewer field goal attempts this season, I think this has the potential to be another 'down-to-the-wire' affair, much like we saw in the first meeting this season, a game Portland won by a single point here at home on May 18th. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Atlanta at 3 pm et on Sunday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the Mercury on Sunday as they look to snap their two-game slide as they open their three-game road trip in Atlanta. Phoenix is off to a 2-4 SU and ATS start to the season. It's certainly worth noting that the Mercury have faced a difficult schedule, going up against the Aces, Valkyries, Lynx, Sky, Tempo and Sparks. Even the Tempo have been a 'tough out' in the early going this season. While the Dream are a quality team as well, I do think the Mercury can hang in this matchup. Atlanta is just one day removed from an 86-69 rout of Dallas, marking its third straight ATS victory. I do think Phoenix will be afforded its share of opportunities in this matchup, noting that Atlanta has allowed its first four opponents to hoist up 70, 73, 73 and 74 field goal attempts. Despite the lopsided end result on Friday, the Dream were forced to give their starters plenty of run with all five playing 30+ minutes. I do think the rest advantage does factor in here and it favors the visiting Mercury. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Portland plus the points over Toronto at 6 pm et on Saturday.

There's a lot of early season buzz around the expansion Tempo as they've gotten off to an encouraging 3-3 start, recently reeling off four straight ATS victories - a streak that ended on Thursday in Minnesota. I don't like the spot for Toronto here, however, as it returns home on just one day of rest following a four-game western road trip. Of course, Portland is the league's other expansion team as this will be the first-ever meeting between these expansion cousins. The Fire are 2-3 SU and 1-4 ATS to start their inaugural campaign. They check in off a lopsided defeat in their first road game in Indiana on Wednesday. The Fire have faced a pretty tough schedule so far, going up against the Sky, Liberty (twice), Sun and Fever. Only the matchup with the Sun was what you would call favorable and Portland won that game. Both of these teams have played relatively slow and I think that favors the underdog Fire in this matchup. Portland has held all five of its opponents to fewer than 70 field goal attempts. Toronto has yielded 64, 58, 58, 64, 70 and 69 field goal attempts through its first six contests. Take Portland (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Atlanta at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

We won fading Dallas in the first meeting between these two teams back on May 12th as Atlanta went on the road and delivered a 77-72 victory. That was a tough spot for the Wings as they were playing their home opener after staging an 'upset' victory in Indiana to open the season. Here, Dallas enters off consecutive wins and covers against Washington and Chicago. I like the Wings chances of keeping it rolling in this 'revenge' spot. Atlanta has played only three games so far this season, to mixed results. Not surprisingly, the Dream's offense has struggled to get going, connecting on just 31, 26 and 27 field goals through three contests. It was fortunate that Dallas had an off shooting night in the first meeting (28-of-73 from the field). I question whether the Dream can keep pace here, let alone cover the pointspread. The Wings enter this game having made good on 39, 28, 31, 33 and 36 field goals through five contests this season. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over New York at 8 pm et on Thursday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the Valkyries on Thursday as they head to New York to challenge the Liberty. In an odd early season scheduling quirk, both of these teams have been off for the last week or so. Golden State has had eight days to stew over a 69-63 'upset' loss against Chicago. Meanwhile, New York checks in off a blowout win in Portland after losing in a stunner against the expansion Fire two nights earlier. It's been a rather uneven start for the Liberty as they're just 2-2 ATS and have struggled defensively. I don't think there's any question Golden State is the better defensive team in this matchup. The Valkyries are built around their ability to stymie opposing offenses and that's certainly been the case so far this season as they've held their first three opponents to 26, 26 and 25 made field goals. That makes grabbing so many points in this matchup enticing, especially when you consider New York hasn't been playing all that fast, hoisting up fewer than 70 field goal attempts in all four games to date. The underdog Valkyries would certainly be on board for a slower-paced affair here as that gives them their best shot at stealing a win in New York. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Toronto at 8 pm et on Thursday.

We knew heading into the season that the Tempo wouldn't be your run-of-the-mill expansion team. Their roster is comprised of enough veteran talent to actually make a push for the postseason in their inaugural campaign. Few could have predicted things to come together so quickly, however. The Tempo enter Thursday's game in Minnesota off to a 3-2 start and fresh off four straight ATS victories. I do think their streak ends here, though, as they catch the Lynx in the wrong place at the wrong time. Minnesota figures to be in a foul mood off an 'upset' loss against the Sky on Sunday. That defeat snapped the Lynx's two-game SU and three-game ATS winning streaks. Toronto got off a season-high 74 field goal attempts in its 'upset' win in Phoenix on Tuesday. I don't think it will find the going as easy against a Minnesota team that has clamped down over its last couple of games, holding the Wings and Sky to an identical 67 field goal attempts. Minnesota has been quietly effective offensively, knocking down 35, 32, 35 and 32 field goals through its first four games and catches Toronto wrapping up a four-game western road trip. Take Minnesota (8*).

My selection is on Indiana minus the points over Portland at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

The expansion Fire are off to a solid 2-2 start to the season after holding off Connecticut by a single point on Monday. Portland really had no business winning that game as it connected on just 28-of-62 field goal attempts while Connecticut knocked down 32-of-63. The Fire's two victories have come in fortuitous fashion as they continue to struggle defensively. They've allowed each of their first four opponents to connect on at least 32 field goals, despite holding all four of those foes to fewer than 70 field goal attempts. That spells trouble as they begin their first road trip of the season in Indiana on Wednesday. The Fever are off to a disappointing 2-2 start but it has had little to do with their offense. They've made good on 40, 31, 36 and 31 field goals through four games and figure to feast on the Fire's matador-like defense. Note that Indiana's own defense is coming off its best effort of the season, limiting Seattle to just 25-of-71 from the field on Saturday. With that being said, the Fever have dropped the cash in consecutive games - a streak I look for them to halt on Wednesday. Take Indiana (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix minus the points over Toronto at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The expansion Tempo and Mercury own identical 2-2 records entering Tuesday's matchup in Phoenix. Not all records are created equally, however. Toronto has faced a manageable early season slate with games against the Mystics, Storm and Sparks (two). Meanwhile, Phoenix has faced an incredibly difficult schedule, going up against the Aces, Valkyries, Lynx and Sky. I've been encouraged by the way the Mercury have limited their opponents' scoring opportunities, allowing 71, 67, 64 and 68 field goal attempts through four games. Phoenix's offense has yet to really get going but I see this as a potential breakout spot. Toronto has to feel satisfied after securing a double-digit win in Los Angeles on Sunday - avenging a 99-95 loss suffered two nights earlier. The Tempo have now reeled off three straight ATS wins. I do think there's trouble brewing, however, as their defensive play has regressed, allowing 25, 27, 37 and 33 made field goals over the course of their first four games. While they may be able to stick around for a while in this game, I think the Mercury's talent edge ultimately wins out as they pull away for a convincing win. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Minnesota at 7 pm et on Sunday.

We'll grab the points with the Sky on Sunday as they look to bounce back following their first loss of the season suffered on Friday in Phoenix. I'm fairly high on Chicago this season as it looks to return to prominence with a new-look roster this season. The Lynx are perennial contenders but I feel they're in for a step back this year. Early returns have been reasonably positive, however, as they check in 2-1 to open the campaign. We'll fade Minnesota here as it comes off an 'upset' win in Dallas on Thursday. I don't think there's a lot separating these two teams at all and fully expect the Sky to at the very least take the Lynx down to the wire on Sunday. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Las Vegas at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the underdog Sun on Friday as they look to rebound following Wednesday's lopsided loss in the front half of this two-game set against the Aces. Las Vegas has quite simply shot the lights out during its current two-game winning streak. The Aces knocked down 39-of-72 (54.2%) of their field goal attempts in Wednesday's victory. It was the perfect storm of sorts as Connecticut shot a woeful 23-of-70 in that contest - its worst performance of the young season. The Aces do continue to give up their share of scoring opportunities. They've yielded 77, 78 and 70 field goal attempts to the opposition in their first three games. Meanwhile, the Sun are somewhat limited personnel-wise as they prepare to move to Houston next season, but they have hoisted uπ 83, 73 and 70 field goal attempts through three games and I think they can make better use of their opportunities in this quick rematch on Friday. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Toronto minus the points over Seattle at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

A bit of a tough early season schedule spot for Seattle as it has gone all over the map in the first week of the season and checks in off a win and cover at Connecticut on Sunday. The Tempo dropped their inaugural game by a 68-65 score against Washington on Friday. The Mystics have the potential to be much-improved this year, as they showed giving the Liberty all they could handle in their second game as well. I look for Toronto to get its first victory out of the way here before it opens a tough four-game western road trip on Friday in Los Angeles. The Tempo were right there against the Mystics despite shooting am miserable 17-of-63 (27%) from the field. Seattle has put up 80 and 89 points through two games but connected on only 53-of-124 (42.7%) of its field goal attempts. Meanwhile, the Storm certainly gave up their share of scoring opportunities with the Valkyries and Sun hoisting up 74 and 73 field goal attempts, respectively. Look for the Tempo to take advantage. Take Toronto (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Atlanta minus the points over Dallas at 8 pm et on Tuesday.

The Wings are coming off a stunning 'upset' win over Caitlin Clark and the Fever on Saturday in Indiana. Optimism is high in Dallas this season as the Wings have a good mix of experience and youthful talent, led by sophomore Paige Bueckers. I do still think there are going to be bumps in the road for this Wings squad, however, and they draw a tough home-opener against Atlanta on Tuesday. The Dream won but failed to cover in their season-opener in Minnesota. Atlanta had to grind out that victory as it couldn't find its shooting legs, connecting on just 31-of-73 (42.5%) of its field goal attempts. I do think it can get on track offensively here, noting that Dallas played matador-like defense in its opener, allowing Indiana to connect on a whopping 40-of-77 (51.9%) field goal attempts. The Wings quite simply shot the lights out themselves in that game as they actually spotted the Fever 11 more field goal attempts, but won on the strength of a blistering 59.1% shooting effort. Look for regression from Dallas on Tuesday. Take Atlanta (10*).

My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Las Vegas at 3:30 pm et on Saturday.

We've seen a changing of the guard of sorts in recent years for the Mercury and I think they're going to be a competitive team again here in 2026. Meanwhile, the Aces carry a certain reputation as one of the league's elite teams and have compiled a roster dotted with All-Star talent as they look to return to prominence this season. I simply feel it's going to take a bit of time for everything to come together for Las Vegas, and perhaps for Phoenix as well. With that in mind, I think the Aces are laying too many points in their home-opener on Saturday. The Mercury had a promising preseason, winning both of their games and displaying their offensive potential. Meanwhile, the Aces did give their regulars plenty of run in their lone contest against WNBA opposition, and got blown out on the road against an up-and-coming Wings squad. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Connecticut at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

The Liberty were very disappointing from an ATS perspective last season as they got off to a slow start for their backers and ended up being overvalued for much of the campaign. I think we'll see a different story unfold in 2026. New York is still firmly entrenched as one of the league's elite teams and it draws a smash spot in its home opener on Friday. Connecticut might have one of the weakest WNBA rosters we've seen in recent years with a number of roster spots essentially taken up by veteran place-holders before the team moves to Houston for a fresh start next season. It's not often we see a true 'lame-duck' team in professional sports but that's essentially the case with the Sun this year. We've actually seen money flood in in support of the Sun in advance of this contest, pushing the line down a couple of points in our favor. We'll gladly take advantage and back the Liberty at home. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Friday.

The common line of thinking here is that the Mercury are finished and while that may very well be the case from a series perspective, I do think they'll have a good chance of extending proceedings for at least one more game. With that being said, the line has flipped from Game 3, with the Mercury shifting from a favored to an underdog role. I think it's the wrong move. Save for perhaps Game 2, Phoenix has been right there in this series and I don't expect it to simply roll over and watch the Aces celebrate a WNBA championship on its home court. Look for the Mercury to hang tough and possibly win this game outright. Take Phoenix.

Finals Game of the Year. My selection is on Phoenix minus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Aces dominated the first two games of this WNBA Finals series on their home floor, capped by a double-digit blowout win on Sunday. While Las Vegas has looked nearly flawless to this point, I expect a strong response from the Mercury as the series shifts to Phoenix. With a couple of days to regroup and make adjustments, the Mercury are in a good position to build some positive momentum at home.

Phoenix showed it can compete with Las Vegas in the opener, falling by just three points, and the familiarity of its home court should allow it to establish rhythm early. The Mercury have too much pride — and too much offensive talent — to go quietly in this spot. This is a virtual must-win in the first-ever best-of-seven Finals format, and I look for Phoenix to deliver its best effort of the postseason.

While Las Vegas has been in dominant form, sustaining that level of play on the road is never easy, especially against a Phoenix team that feeds off the energy of its home crowd. Expect the Mercury to tighten things up defensively, control tempo, and use their experience to take advantage of a letdown opportunity for the Aces.

Take Phoenix minus the points.

My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Las Vegas at 3 pm et on Sunday.

The Fever find themselves in an elimination spot but I don’t think that means we’ll see them roll over. Game 3 was closer than the final margin suggested, with Indiana hanging around for three quarters before going ice-cold from the field. Shooting just 26-for-73 is unlikely to repeat itself, and with a bit more efficiency, the Fever should be able to keep this one competitive into the closing minutes.

From a betting standpoint, we’re also getting an even better number after Indiana dropped back-to-back SU and ATS results. History suggests that’s not a trend likely to extend much further – in fact, Indiana hasn’t lost three straight games against the spread since mid-July. That resilience should come into play here.

Las Vegas, meanwhile, hasn’t been the same dominant force away from home. The Aces are just 12-12 ATS on the road this season, and their scoring margin in those games is almost negligible at +0.3 points per contest. That makes them a much less reliable favorite in this spot, particularly against a desperate opponent.

Take Indiana plus the points.

My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Las Vegas at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

The Fever were humbled in Game 2, but that shouldn’t overshadow the fact that they’ve already proven they can go toe-to-toe with the favored Aces. Indiana’s Game 1 win in Las Vegas wasn’t a fluke—it was a reflection of the fight this team has shown all season, particularly at home where they’ve been a strong bet both straight-up and against the number.

Las Vegas leaned heavily on A’ja Wilson’s dominance in Game 2, and while she’s a matchup problem for anyone, Indiana has had time to regroup and adjust defensively. The Fever should also benefit from their supporting cast shooting better back on their home floor, where they’ve been far more comfortable.

The Aces have been beatable away from home, and Indiana has made a habit of playing close in front of its fans. With the series shifting and the Fever desperate to bounce back, this has the look of a tightly contested affair.

Take Indiana plus the points.

My selection is on Las Vegas minus the points over Indiana at 9:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The Fever staged an ‘upset’ win in Game 1 of this series on Sunday. That came on the heels of Indiana’s improbable first round ‘upset’ victory in the closing seconds to advance to this round. Still missing a number of key contributors, I expect the Fever to fall short in Game 2 on Tuesday. The Aces saved their best basketball for the stretch run and I’m confident in their ability to bounce back on Tuesday at home. While this may look like a steep number at first glance, the SU winner has enjoyed mostly success from an ATS perspective as well in these playoffs. We’ll lay the points with confidence. Take Las Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Atlanta minus the points over Indiana at 7:30 pm et on Thursday.

We'll lay the points with the Dream as they look to bounce back following an 'upset' loss in Game 2 of this series. It's worth noting that the straight-up winner has gone an incredible 41-3-1 against the spread in Atlanta's 45 games so far this season. We fully expect the Dream to prevail in this third-and-deciding game at home so we'll lay the points as the short-handed Fever run out of gas at the end of a long season. Take Atlanta (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Minnesota at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

While Game 1 didn't go their way, it has certainly been a successful inaugural season for the expansion Valkyries. We'll grab all the points we can get as Golden State returns home for Game 2 on Wednesday. The Lynx quite simply shot the lights out in the opener of this series. They've now won back-to-back games both SU and ATS and that's worth noting as they haven't won more than two games in a row since a six-game streak in late July-early August and haven't reeled off three straight ATS victories since mid-July. The Valkyries have lost four games in a row, matching their longest losing skid of the season. The only other time they dropped four in a row they followed it up with an outright upset win as a double-digit home underdog against Las Vegas on June 7th. Take Golden State (8*).

First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over New York at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Mercury picked a bad time to turn in one of their worst shooting performances of the season in Game 1 of this series, connecting on just 25-of-77 field goal attempts in a 76-69 overtime loss at home. That marks four straight losses for Phoenix. In fact, it has dropped the cash in six straight contests. All is not lost, however, as the Mercury can extend this series with a win on Wednesday. I like their chances. Note that New York didn't shoot particularly well in Game 1 and that's been an ongoing theme. The Liberty have connected on fewer than 30 field goals in regulation time in eight of their last nine games. They haven't held consecutive opponents to fewer than 30 made field goals since August. While they do ride a four-game winning streak into this contest, they haven't won consecutive games ATS since July. Take Phoenix (10*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Atlanta at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

This is a really difficult spot for the Dream to get up for as they've already defeated the Sun by 17 and 25-point margins in the last couple of weeks including a rout at home two nights ago. Atlanta has shifted its attention to the postseason at this point as it has wrapped up top spot in the Eastern Conference thanks to a late 6-1 surge. In fact, the Dream enter this game riding a four-game SU and ATS winning streak. Connecticut will finish in either second-last or tied for last place in the Eastern Conference but will play for pride here. The Sun are 1-4 ATS over their last five games but did 'upset' Phoenix as double-digit underdogs in their most recent home game on September 6th. Look for a spirited performance from Connecticut in its home finale on Wednesday. Take Connecticut (8*).

Eastern Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Washington plus the points over New York at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

I'm having a difficult time making much sense of this line. Yes, the Mystics have lost nine straight games, going 3-6 ATS over that stretch including a 26-point rout at the hands of these same Liberty in New York on August 28th. But the Liberty have been one of the league's worst bets for an extended period. They're just 2-5 ATS over their last seven contests. They did stage an 'upset' win on the road against Seattle last time out. However, the Liberty have connected on fewer than 30 field goals in six straight games. In fact, they've gotten off 58 or fewer field goal attempts in all six of those games as well. That's not a recipe for success when laying this many points, regardless the level of opposition they're facing. The Mystics are 2-1 ATS over their last three games including a narrow three-point loss on the road against the Sparks. We'll grab all the points we can get. Take Washington (10*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Atlanta at 1 pm et on Monday.

Both of these teams had long ATS winning streaks snapped in their most recent game. In the case of Connecticut, it was drilled 94-70 at home against Minnesota. It will look to salvage the finale of this brief two-game homestand against Atlanta on Monday. The Dream dropped an 81-75 decision at home against the red hot Aces last time out. Atlanta has been one of the best best in the WNBA for the last month but I see this as a flat spot in an early start game on the road against a non-conference opponent. Of note, the Sun haven't lost consecutive games since a five-game slide from August 3rd to 11th. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Washington plus the points over New York at 7 pm et on Thursday.

The Liberty have taken both previous meetings in this series this season but those matchups were played in May and June, when New York was a far more dominant team. Here, the Liberty check in riding a three-game ATS losing streak and a woeful 3-11 ATS over their last 14 games. Washington has lost four games in a row but nearly snapped its skid in a narrow 84-82 ATS cover against Seattle last time out. The Liberty are laying a lot of points in this spot considering you would have to go back five games to find the last time they connected on more than 30 field goals and four games for the last time they limited an opponent to fewer than 30 field goals. They'll certainly have one eye on a difficult three-game western road trip that starts on Saturday in Phoenix. For Washington, it desperately needs to regain its footing as this is the start of its own three-game road trip where a losing streak can snowball in a hurry. We'll grab the generous helping of points and call for a competitive affair between these Eastern Conference foes. Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Connecticut at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Sun have thrived despite a tough schedule lately, playing every other day since August 17th and going 3-2 SU and 4-0-1 ATS over that stretch. I think it catches up with them here as they wrap up their three-game road trip in Dallas on Wednesday. The Wings have lost five games in a row including back-to-back contests ATS. Despite it being a down year for Dallas, its longest ATS losing streak has lasted only three games and that hasn't occurred since July 7th to 13th. This is a bit of a difficult matchup for the oddsmakers to get a handle on as the two teams haven't met since the middle of June. Note that the Wings have taken both previous meetings this season despite both of those contests being played in Connecticut. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles plus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

This projects as a high-scoring affair with the total set in the 170's. I think that suits the Sparks better than the Mercury and we're catching a generous number of points with the home underdogs. Los Angeles has been idle for the last five days following a closer-than-expected 81-80 win over Dallas. The Sparks have now dropped the cash in four straight games, matching their longest ATS losing streak this season. Phoenix has had the last three days off following a win-and-cover at home against the offensively-challenged Valkyries. Note that the Mercury have connected on just 22 and 28 field goals in their last two games including an 83-61 blowout loss in their most recent road tilt against Las Vegas. Noting that the SU winner has also covered the spread in every Mercury game going all the way back to June 19th, a sprinkle on the Sparks moneyline could be considered here as well. Take Los Angeles (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Monday.

This situation sets up nicely for the Sky catching a generous helping of points against the red hot Aces on Monday. Las Vegas has reeled off 10 straight wins including two in a row ATS. I do think some regression is in order for the Aces offense here, however, as they come off a game that saw them connect on 34 field goals and shoot better than 52% from the field on Saturday in Washington. The Sky are actually playing exceptionally well offensively right now, coming off three straight games in which they knocked down 30+ field goals. Not surprisingly, they went 2-1 ATS over that stretch but do check in off an 'upset' loss by double-digits at home against the Sun on Saturday. Keep in mind, they're just one game removed from stunning the Liberty outright as 14/15-point underdogs on the road. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on Washington plus the points over Las Vegas at 3 pm et on Saturday.

The Aces are the hottest team in the WNBA right now, riding a nine-game winning streak entering Saturday's matchup in Washington. I see this as a bit of a tough spot for Las Vegas, however, as it is just one day removed from an 83-61 blowout win at home against Phoenix and now travels across the country to face a Mystics squad that figures to be in a foul mood off consecutive 'upset' defeats against Connecticut. Washington had been playing well prior to that home-and-home against the Sun, having gone 3-2 SU and 4-1 ATS over its previous five games. It has been putrid offensively over the last two contests but I'm confident we'll see a strong bounce-back performance at that end of the floor back home on Saturday. The early start doesn't figure to help the Aces cause laying this many points on the road in what has been a very competitive matchup this season with the first three meetings being decided by a grand total of 14 points (Washington won two of those three games). Take Washington (8*).

My selection is on Chicago plus the points over New York at 7 pm et on Thursday.

We won with the Liberty in their double-digit victory over the Lynx two nights ago. I won't hesitate to go the other way and fade New York as it hosts lowly Chicago on Thursday, however. The Sky have lost five straight and 13 of their last 14 games. We're not asking them to win outright on Thursday, though. Chicago did manage to cover the spread in a narrow 94-88 loss against Seattle two nights ago. I think that performance, particularly at the offensive end of the floor can give it some confidence entering this double-revenge spot against New York. Note that the first two meetings in this series this season were lopsided in favor of the Liberty. They came early in the season when New York was playing much better. The Liberty have gone just 5-7 SU and 3-8-1 ATS over their last 12 contests. They haven't posted consecutive ATS victories since a five-game streak from July 8th to 25th. Take Chicago (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Valkyries got stomped 79-63 at home against Atlanta two nights ago, snapping their four-game SU and five-game ATS winning streaks. I like their chances of bouncing back off that poor performance (they shot a miserable 21-for-60 in that loss) as they host Phoenix on Tuesday. The Mercury are coming off an 85-82 'upset' win in Seattle on Sunday, snapping their two-game SU and ATS slide. Note that while Phoenix's offense has held up well, it has allowed back-to-back opponents to knock down 30 or more field goals. I'm not convinced the Mercury's offensive success is sustainable as it plays its second road game in three nights against one of the league's best defensive teams. The Valkyries have been incredibly stingy at their own end of the floor, allowing 28 or fewer made field goals in two straight and eight of their last 10 games overall. Take Golden State (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on New York minus the points over Minnesota at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

The Lynx are red hot, riding a six-game SU and two-game ATS winning streak including an 86-80 win-and-cover against the Liberty at home on Saturday. We'll call for New York to get its revenge on Tuesday, however, as it returns home looking to snap its two-game skid. The Liberty got off to a terrific start this season but things have gone sour to be sure. I do think Saturday's game could have gone either way - the Liberty actually shot a respectable 32-for-71 from the field. Note that New York has now held six of its last eight opponents to fewer than 30 made field goals. Minnesota on the other hand has allowed three of its last four foes to knock down 30 or more field goals. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Indiana minus the points over Connecticut at 1 pm et on Sunday.

We'll lay the points with the Fever as they look to bounce back following consecutive losses both SU and ATS. Indiana was favored heavily in both of those recent setbacks, at home no less. I do think the Fever are well-positioned to rebound here, however, given their current form offensively. The Sun remain one of the league's most offensively-challenged squads and I think they're in danger of getting overwhelmed by a Fever offense that has connected on 32 or more field goals in seven of their last nine games. The Sun do come off a win and cover but that was against the reeling Sky. Prior to that they had lost five games in a row going 2-3 ATS over that stretch. Take Indiana (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix minus the points over Las Vegas at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Aces are in a clear letdown spot on Friday as they check in off an win and cover at home against the Liberty on Wednesday. Las Vegas has now won five games in a row SU but interestingly hasn't covered the spread in consecutive games since July 27th and 29th. In fact, the Aces have only covered the spread in back-to-back games on three previous occasions this season - two games marks their longest ATS winning streak of the campaign. Phoenix had its three-game SU and ATS winning streak snapped in an 'upset' loss at home against Atlanta last time out. The Mercury have had four full days off to chew on that defeat and I expect them to bounce back on Friday. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Atlanta at 10 pm et on Friday.

The Dream added to the Storm's misery two nights ago, rolling to an 85-75 win to hand Seattle its sixth straight defeat both SU and ATS. Atlanta is at the opposite end of the spectrum right now, riding a six-game winning streak including five straight ATS victories. I do think the Storm will show some fight on Friday as the scene shifts north to Vancouver for this contest on Canadian soil. Atlanta used a blistering shooting performance to secure the 'upset' victory two nights ago but now finds itself in a favored role. While the Dream have enjoyed plenty of success lately, most of it has come in underdog fashion. They're actually just 1-2 ATS in their last three games when laying points. Look for the Storm to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Seattle (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Year. My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Atlanta at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Storm inexplicably limp into this game having lost five straight contests both SU and ATS. I expect their slide to finally come to an end on Wednesday as they host the streaking Dream. Atlanta has won five games in a row including each of its last four ATS. I see this as a tough spot, however, as it looks to wrap up a perfect 3-0 road trip and comes off an 'upset' win in Phoenix last time out. The Dream have had two full days off since that most recent contest - in fact, they've played just once in the last five days and I think that could leave them a little flat-footed here. While Seattle has been struggling, each of its last five games could have gone either way with the margin of victory in all four contests four points or less. These two teams have split a pair of meetings this season with each team winning on its opponent's floor. This is certainly a key spot for the Storm as they'll head back on the road for a quick rematch with Atlanta on Friday. Seattle will actually play six of its next seven games on the road after tonight's contest. This isn't a must-win but it's close. Take Seattle (10*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Indiana at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The Wings enter this game riding a five-game losing streak and have dropped the cash in back-to-back games. They lost by 10 points as a home underdog against the Fever back on August 1st but I like their chances of keeping this one more competitive as the scene shifts to Indiana for Tuesday's rematch. Dallas shot a miserable 23-for-63 from the field in a 13-point 'upset' loss at home against Washington last time out. I like the fact that it gets a chance to get right back out there two nights later and catches Indiana off a terrific performance on Saturday, rolling to a 92-70 win over reeling Chicago. The Fever were the ones looking to bounce back in that contest as they were coming off an ugly 95-60 loss in Phoenix two nights earlier. This time around, I can't help but feel the Fever are in for a letdown playing at home against a team they just handled on the road earlier this month. Of note, despite their recent struggles overall, the Wings have managed to cover the spread in two of their last three road games. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Las Vegas at 9 pm et on Sunday.

The Sun will look to snap their three-game slide as they continue their four-game road trip in Las Vegas on Sunday. Connecticut did play better in its most recent game but still fell just short of the ATS cover in an 11-point loss in Los Angeles. Note that while the Sun have dropped the cash in back-to-back games, prolonged ATS losing streaks haven't been commonplace for them this season. In fact, they've yet to lose three games in a row ATS. Las Vegas is riding a season-high three-game winning streak, going 2-1 ATS over that stretch. The Aces remain vulnerable to cold streaks offensively. Note that they've been held to 27 or fewer made field goals in two of their last four games. They've also allowed 32 or more made field goals in two of their last four contests, potentially opening the door for the Sun to stick around in this one. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Los Angeles at 8:30 pm et on Saturday.

The Sparks have reeled off three straight wins both SU and ATS but they're not playing with a great margin for error as they've displayed matador-like defense, allowing five straight opponents to connect on 33 or more field goals. The Valkyries on the other hand have lost consecutive games but have limited an incredible seven of their last nine opponents to 27 made field goals or less. Yes, Golden State's offense has sputtered but I do think it will be afforded a terrific bounce-back opportunity against the sieve-like Sparks on Saturday. Note that since losing its inaugural game in blowout fashion against Los Angeles, Golden State has taken the last two meetings in this series. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Seattle plus the points over Las Vegas at 10 pm et on Friday.

I think we're getting the better team in an underdog role in this matchup on Friday night in Las Vegas. Seattle has struggled lately, dropping three straight games both SU and ATS, all at home no less. I think we see the Storm offense overwhelm the Aces on Friday, however. Seattle, while struggling to pick up wins, continues to thrive offensively having connected on 42, 40, 30 and 34 field goals over its last four games. Las Vegas has topped 27 made field goals just once in its last three games. The Aces do come off consecutive wins but have been anything but consistent this season, managing a three-game winning streak only once previously. Take Seattle (8*).

My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Thursday.

Phoenix checks into this game off back-to-back wins and covers and will look to avenge a 107-101 loss suffered in Indiana on July 30th. I like the Fever's chances of at least taking this one down to the wire, however. Indiana has connected on 32 or more field goals in five straight games. While its defensive play has left a lot to be desired, the fact is the Sparks quite simply shot the lights out against it two nights ago. Phoenix has been held to fewer than 30 made field goals in two of its last three contests. Take Indiana (8*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Las Vegas at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

The Valkyries were a no-show in Sunday's game in Las Vegas, falling by a 101-77 score against the same Aces squad that they'll host in a quick rematch at home on Wednesday. I'm not going to knock the Valkyries for that poor performance as they entered that contest looking to complete a 4-1 road trip and fresh off three straight victories both SU and ATS. Las Vegas has been the picture of inconsistency this season. Note that the Aces lost by 53 points against the Lynx on Saturday before delivering that lopsided win on Sunday. We know that Golden State can hang with Las Vegas. After all, the Valkyries posted a 95-68 home win over the Aces back in early June before dropping a narrow two-point decision in a wild 104-102 affair in Las Vegas on July 12th. Look for Golden State to take this one down to the wire at the very least. Take Golden State (10*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Tuesday.

The Mercury probably breathed a sigh of relief after delivering a win-and-cover to wrap up their five-game road trip in Chicago on Sunday. That victory only served to snap a two-game SU and ATS slide. Phoenix remains just 2-5 ATS over its last seven games and hasn't posted consecutive victories since a three-game winning streak from July 7th to 14th. Connecticut enters this four-game road trip off back-to-back ATS wins against New York. The Sun staged a big 'upset' win in the front half of that two-game set before falling by nine points on Sunday. While one of the league's worst teams record-wise, Connecticut has actually been a terrific bet, certainly of late, going 7-2 ATS over its last nine games. Take Connecticut (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Las Vegas at 6 pm et on Sunday.

The Valkyries have reeled off three straight victories as they look to wrap up their five-game road trip on a winning note in Las Vegas on Sunday. Golden State's offensive production hasn't been there over its last couple of games but it still managed to win and cover in Washington and Chicago. Defensively, the Valkyries have been outstanding, holding three straight and six of their last seven opponents to 27 made field goals or less. Las Vegas got drilled 111-58 at home against Minnesota yesterday. While the motivation will certainly be there to bounce back on Sunday, I'm not convinced the Aces match up all that well with the Valkyries. Note that Las Vegas has allowed 30+ made field goals in three of its last four contests. The last meeting between these two teams took place on July 12th with the Aces eking out a two-point win but non-cover at home. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Indiana at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

We won with the Fever in their most recent game - a 107-101 'upset' win over the Mercury at home. Here, we'll fade Indiana as it heads on the road riding a three-game SU and ATS winning streak. Dallas dropped an 88-85 decision at home against Atlanta two nights ago but did cover the spread for a second straight game. The Wings are 4-2 ATS over their last six contests. While Indiana comes off a red hot shooting performance last time out, Dallas has been pouring it in over an extended stretch, knocking down 30+ field goals in three straight and six of its last seven contests. Take Dallas (8*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Washington at 7:30 pm et on Thursday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the Valkyries on Thursday as they look to stage their second straight 'upset' win on this road trip. Golden State defeated Atlanta 77-75 two nights ago, marking its second win in its last three games, both SU and ATS. Also of note, the Valkyries have held four of their last five foes to 27 or fewer made field goals. Washington on the other hand has been lit up for 32+ field goals in four of its last five contests. The Mystics won and covered against Chicago two nights ago but have gone just 2-3 SU and ATS over their last five games. Take Golden State (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Indiana plus the points over Phoenix at 7 pm et on Wednesday.

The Fever have regained their footing with back-to-back wins both SU and ATS and they seem to have found an offensive rhythm again having connected on 31, 29 and 33 field goals over their last three games. I look for them to turn in another strong effort on Wednesday as they host the Mercury in an underdog role. Phoenix continues its long road trip having split the first two games including a win and cover in Washington last time out. Now the Mercury have been idle for a couple of days and I think they'll have a difficult time stringing together a second straight victory. This will mark the first meeting between these non-conference foes this season and as we've seen time and time again this season, the lines in such situations tend to be a little out of whack. Take Indiana (10*).

My selection is on Golden State plus the points over Atlanta at 7:30 pm et on Tuesday.

The first matchup between these two teams went Atlanta's way but it was a competitive affair with the Dream winning by nine points. The Valkyries enter this contest off one of their worst performances of the season as they were blown out at home by the lowly Sun. I'm confident they can regroup and get back to playing competitive basketball on Tuesday. Atlanta is in an obvious letdown spot after posting 'upset' wins in Phoenix and Minnesota. The Dream are still just an even 3-3 ATS over their last six games. Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Los Angeles at 7 pm et on Saturday.

Even on a night where the Liberty didn't bring their 'A' game, arguably at either end of the floor, they still ended up winning comfortably by 13 points last night against the Mercury. While Saturday's opponent, the Los Angeles Sparks, are red hot right now, I don't think they're as good as Phoenix and fully expect the Liberty to bring an end to their four-game SU and three-game ATS winning streaks. Los Angeles has been pouring it on offensively during its current streak but it has also faced some less than impressive opposition in the Sun and Mystics (it played each team twice over that stretch). The Liberty certainly present a much more difficult challenge as they enter this contest riding a five-game SU and ATS winning streak. New York already handled Los Angeles by double-digits here at home back on July 3rd and that was when the Liberty weren't playing nearly as well, entering that game on a seven-game ATS slide (they ended up 'pushing' as 10-point favorites). Take New York (8*).

My selection is on Golden State minus the points over Dallas at 10 pm et on Friday.

We'll fade the Wings as they check in off a big 'upset' win in Seattle earlier this week. That victory only served to snap Dallas' four-game losing streak (1-3 ATS) and the Wings remain a woeful 7-17 SU this season. Golden State will certainly be up for this game as it takes the floor for the first time since July 16th and looks to snap its three-game losing streak. The Valkyries have dropped the cash in back-to-back games but extended ATS losing streaks have been few and far between this season. In fact, their current two-game ATS slide matches their longest of the season (last time they responded with an outright 'upset' road win over the Fever on July 9th). Take Golden State (8*).

My selection is on Phoenix plus the points over New York at 7:30 pm et on Friday.

Phoenix was in a tough spot two nights ago as it played following a one-week layoff and ultimately lost outright at home against the Dream. Here, I look for the Mercury to bounce back and give the Liberty a run on Friday. Phoenix checks in off consecutive losses both SU and ATS but remains a solid 15-8 on the season. The shots simply haven't been falling for the Mercury but I do think they can bounce back in that regard here. New York comes off four straight wins both SU and ATS. In stark contrast to the Mercury, the shots have been falling for the Liberty. The fact that they rallied for a win and cover against the Fever last time out masked their poor defensively play as they allowed a short-handed Indiana squad to connect on 31 field goals. I expect this game to go down to the wire at the very least. Take Phoenix (8*).

My selection is on Connecticut plus the points over Los Angeles at 7 pm et on Thursday.

While Connecticut has been one of the league's worst teams this season it has also proven to be a highly profitable bet going. back to mid-June. The Sun check in 8-4 ATS since June 17th and enter Thursday's matchup with Los Angeles riding a four-game ATS winning streak. That streak included a loss but cover against these same Sparks in Los Angeles on July 13th. The Sparks are riding a three-game winning streak - their longest of the season. Prior to their current stretch they hadn't strung together consecutive victories all season. Off an 'upset' win in Washington two nights ago, I look for them to have a difficult time winning by margin on Thursday. Note that the Sparks remain vulnerable defensively having allowed seven straight and 16 of their last 19 opponents to connect on 30+ field goals. Meanwhile, Connecticut has knocked down 30+ field goals in three of its last four contests. On the flip side, the Sun have held two of their last three foes to fewer than 30 made field goals. While the Sparks glance ahead at a more difficult matchup in New York on Saturday, Connecticut gets two days off before continuing its six-game homestand against Golden State on Sunday. We'll grab all the points we can get in this spot. Take Connecticut (8*).

Non-Conference Game of the Week. My selection is on Atlanta plus the points over Phoenix at 10 pm et on Wednesday.

We'll grab all the points we can get with the Dream as they look to avoid a second loss in as many nights following Tuesday's setback in Las Vegas. Atlanta remains a winning team on the season at 13-10. It didn't appear to expend too much of its energy last night, falling behind thanks to a poor second quarter effort and never really putting up much of a fight the rest of the way (Atlanta scored just 13 points in the fourth quarter). Chalk that up as a poor shooting performance from the Dream, particularly from short (two-point range). I'm confident we'll see Atlanta bounce back on Wednesday as it travels to Phoenix to face a Mercury squad that has been idle since last Wednesday and could display some rust in this contest. Note that Phoenix really struggled defending the perimeter leading up to the All-Star break and I think the Dream can take advantage and ultimately keep this game closer than expected. With this being the first meeting between these non-conference foes this season, I believe the oddsmakers have missed the mark. Take Atlanta (10*).

Western Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Dallas plus the points over Las Vegas at 8 pm et on Wednesday.

The Aces haven't come close to living up to expectations this season, stumbling to a 10-11 SU and 8-13 ATS record through 21 games. They do check in off a 104-102 win over Golden State last time out but that was only thanks to a red hot shooting performance (34-of-62 from the field), something they're unlikely to duplicate on Wednesday. None that Las Vegas hasn't won consecutive games since June 22nd and 25th. Dallas will look to avoid a four-game losing streak heading into the All-Star break. While it does enter off three straight losses both SU and ATS, all three of those setbacks came on the road. The Wings are 4-1 SU and ATS in their last five home games and will look to make the most of this spot before their next two contests come on the road against Seattle and Golden State following the break. Take Dallas (10*).

My selection is on New York minus the points over Indiana at 7:30 pm et on Wednesday.

We'll lay the points with the surging Liberty as they host the Fever on Wednesday. Indiana comes off three straight wins but failed to cover the spread in a closer-than-expected contest in Connecticut last night. New York has the clear rest advantage here. Not only has it not played since Sunday but it has been home for its last four games going back to the start of July. The Liberty went through a miserable stretch both SU and ATS but have come out of it, reeling off consecutive wins and covers against Las Vegas and Atlanta. Note that it won by seven against a good Dream squad on Sunday despite connecting on just 30-of-78 (38.5%) of its field goal attempts. The Liberty are certainly locked-in defensively right now having held three of their last four opponents to 27 or fewer made field goals and I'm confident they can cool off the red hot Fever offense here and ultimately win this game going away. Take New York (8*).

My selection is on Minnesota minus the points over Chicago at 8 pm et on Monday.

We won with the Sky in the opener of this two-game set two days ago but I won't hesitate to go the other way in Monday's rematch. In fact, we've won twice with Chicago against Minnesota going back to July 6th. The Sky are riding an incredible ATS run having covered the spread in eight straight games. However, they're heading into uncharted territory here as they look to notch a third straight SU victory for the first time this season. The only other time they won two games in a row they followed that winning streak up with a 79-52 rout at home against Indiana. Minnesota has been a little uneven lately but is still one of the league's best teams at 18-5 on the campaign. The Lynx continue to thrive offensively having connected on 30 or more field goals in four straight games. They simply ran into a red hot shooting performance from the Sky on Saturday. Look for Minnesota to do a better job of clamping down defensively on Monday, noting they've held 18 of 23 opponents to fewer than 30 made field goals this season, never allowing consecutive foes to reach that number. Take Minnesota (8*).

My selection is on Los Angeles minus the points over Connecticut at 6 pm et on Sunday.

I think this is more of a mismatch than most realize based on current form. The Sun enter this game off a double-digit loss in Seattle on Friday. Their offense has been awful this season and certainly of late. Apart from an outlier performance in a stunning home upset of the Storm two games back, the Sun have been held to 24 or fewer made field goals in three of their last four and five of their last seven games overall. Meanwhile, prior to Friday's contest, in which they allowed Seattle to connect on 29 field goals, they had allowed 30+ made field goals in five straight games. The Sparks have quietly been one of the hottest offensive teams in the league lately, connecting on 29 or more field goals in five of their last six contests. While their defense leaves a lot to be desired, I'm not sure that the Sun, who are at a rest disadvantage, can take advantage here. With this being the first meeting between these non-conference foes this season, I think the oddsmakers are a little light on the Sparks. Take Los Angeles (8*).