Liberty try to upset the Mystics

It was bound to happen at some point. Unfortunately for the New York Liberty, it happened on their watch. On Friday night, the Atlanta Dream came into town riding a 12-game losing streak. They were able to out execute the Liberty late and came away with a three point victory. For NY, it was another tough loss in a series of them throughout this season. That's how it goes sometimes.

The opponent this afternoon will be the Washington Mystics in the nation’s capital. It's been another banner season for DC and they're one of the favorites to win the Championship. They had been riding a five game winning streak, but lost their last game on Friday night against the Chicago Sky.

Where to follow the game

NBATV is the place to be. Tip off after 3 PM.

Injuries

Asia Durr is questionable.

Kiara Leslie and Kristi Toliver are out for the Mystics.

The game

Washington won the first game in June.

The great thing about the Mystics is they have depth up and down the roster. Earlier this year, I asked writer and ESPN producer Jasmine Brown about the Mystics and here's what she told me:

The most impressive aspect is their unity and closeness. They have basically gelled together now since all of them came together in 2017. Since the addition of veterans Elena Delle Donne and Kristi Toliver, it made the team so much better with their presence. Those two couples with the impressive play of Ariel Atkins has been amazing. The other impressive aspect is the bench. That is an important piece moving forward for the rest of the season.

For the Liberty, a lot of their games have come down to turnovers. This matchup becomes particularly thorny for them as the Mystics are fifth best in the W at forcing turnovers. If NY isn't careful, they're going to get run out the gym.

Player to watch: Elena Delle Donne

Say hello to one of the contenders for MVP. EDD has put together another stellar season and has Washington primed for another title run. Delle Donne is averaging around 18 points and eight rebounds a night on a shining .509/.408/.965 shooting split. She's also been doing this with a mask after she broke her nose in July. Impressive.

Tina Charles will have to match Delle Donne shot for shot. Charles has been NY's main source of offense recently and is looking to bounce back from a rough shooting performance on Friday. Now that Amanda Zahui B is back, she'll have some extra help against one of the league's best rebounding teams.

Jam session

I spent last week mentioning artists that have new music out, and I forgot to mention Missy Elliot! Missy has a new EP and will be honored at the MTV Video Music Awards on Monday night, so in honor of Misdemeanor, let's take it back to the beginning:

• New York Liberty Game Notes - New York Liberty