:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65092995/1169278355.jpg.0.jpg)
The Los Angeles Sparks play their second contest of a three-game homestand against the Indiana Fever. The Sparks beat the Minnesota Lynx in their return to Staples Center following back-to-back road losses against the Dallas Wings and Chicago Sky. The Sparks should be the next team to punch a ticket to the playoffs.
Meanwhile, the Fever have dropped seven of their last 10 games and sit three-and-a-half games from a playoff spot. This will be the second meeting of the season for the Sparks and Fever. L.A. won the July 12 matchup 90-84.
The Minnesota Lynx welcome the Dallas Wings to the Target Center. The Lynx have dropped three of their last four games but are not in any real danger of missing the playoffs, as the majority of their recent losses have come against teams in front of them in the standings and the teams behind them have not been able to capitalize.
The Fever, Wings and New York Liberty are a combined 9-21 over their last 10 games. The Lynx will need to keep beating the teams behind them to ensure their playoff position remains steady.
Game information
Minnesota Lynx (13-15) vs. Dallas Wings (9-18)
When: Thursday, Aug. 22, at 8 p.m. ET
Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, MN
How to watch: WNBA League Pass
Keys to the matchup: Arike Ogunbowale (Wings) and Napheesa Collier (Lynx) have been outstanding players for their teams in their first WNBA seasons and should be expected to impact the outcome of the game. In the first two meetings between these teams, both in Dallas, each picked up a three-point win. On the road in Minnesota, however, the Wings will need to bring intensity to stay in this one.
Los Angeles Sparks (16-10) vs. Indiana Fever (9-18)
When: Thursday, Aug. 22, at 10:30 p.m. ET
Where: Staples Center, Los Angeles, CA
How to watch: CBS Sports Network, Spectrum Sportsnet
Keys to the matchup: The Sparks have the advantage at nearly every turn, especially with Candace Parker on the court — she did not play in July when the Sparks won 90-84 in Indiana. Additionally, Riquna Williams will be available following a 10-game suspension resulting from a domestic violence incident. It will be interesting to see how she is integrated back into the rotation.