Quick Analysis: Lynx sign Taj McWilliams-Franklin
I have no capacity to remain objective about the Minnesota Lynx and this move isn't really helping that effort. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve describes McWilliams-Franklin as one of the most versatile post players ever. However, her most significant contribution to the Lynx based on last year's numbers is that she is an efficient low post scorer, which is something they sorely lacked. Her true shooting percentage was about 9% higher than either Nicky Anosike or Rebekkah Brunson at a very similar usage rate. In addition, she was a much more efficient passer than either last season, committing turnovers less often and creating assists more often. And she can hit threes too. The reason all of this is so important is that despite all of the Lynx's firepower on the perimeter - which I emphasize only played together for three games and Monica Wright got much better as the season progressed - shooting efficiency was one of their most significant weaknesses relative to their opponents. Having a post player that can both score and pass efficiently makes them all the more efficient. But now with two high draft picks that could presumably result in another post player, it's reasonable to believe another move might be following this one to re-balance the roster.