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With living legend Sue Bird on the roster fostering the development of younger talent, the Seattle Storm is heading in the right direction. But the team made the 2017 Playoffs just three games ahead of the Chicago Sky — finishing the season an upside-down 15-19 in the wins-losses column.
An onslaught of new talent at the point guard position offers promising signs that the franchise not only is going after wins this season, but building for the post-Bird era as well. But do the pieces stack up against some of the most dominant players in the league?
What to expect
Familiar faces
Fifteen-year WNBA veteran Bird is in it to win it. But perhaps her energy these day would be better spent developing Jewell Loyd to quarterback the team in the near and distant future. In the short-term, Loyd could be primed to take over games in the event of a slump or injury. Long-term, her development could determine the future of the franchise. With Breanna Stewart starring in the front court, the middling team of 2017 has potential (though not yet promise).
Notable newbies
The 2018 season marks a real changing of the guard — or start of the process, at least, with rookies Jordin Canada and Brittany McPhee poised to learn from one of the best. Rookie center Khaalia Hillsman and forward Aleksandra Crvendakic should make strong contributions in the paint and front court, respectively.
Biggest obstacles
- An aging Sue Bird
- Perhaps too much pressure on Jordin Canada
- Stormy weather
Game zone
Preseason opener
Phoenix Mercury vs. Seattle Storm
Tuesday May 8 at 3 p.m. EST
KeyArena in Seattle, WA — Tickets
National TV: none listed
Season home opener
Seattle Storm vs. Phoenix Mercury
Sunday May 20 at 9:00 p.m. EST
KeyArena in Seattle, WA — Tickets
National TV: Twitter