The 2022 WNBA Playoffs are a couple days old, and there have already been a few great games. Let’s jump into the WNBA picks today and check out the best WNBA playoff predictions for the first set of Game 2’s, and how to bet these first-round games.
WNBA Picks Today: Round 1 Playoff Betting Predictions
WNBA Pick: Liberty vs. Sky Game 2
This game was extremely competitive from start to finish. The Liberty walked into the defending champion’s home arena and got the job done. They were a heavy underdog, and beating the Sky in Chicago is no easy feat.
One item worth noting from this game is that Chicago was up by 6 points with six minutes left, but they ultimately ended up losing by 7. The Liberty scored the final 13 points of the game, while the Sky missed 10 out of their final 11 field goal attempts. While this matchup was certainly back and forth, it looked like the Sky had the game wrapped up midway through the fourth quarter. If Chicago can put themselves in a similar position tonight, they will finish the job at home and force a Game 3.
It’s also worth mentioning that towards the end of practice yesterday afternoon, the Sky’s Kahleah Copper went down in what looked to be a non-contact ankle injury. Chicago’s coaching staff is playing the injury close to the vest, but there’s certainly a shot that Copper will land on the injury report for this crucial Game 2. If she can’t go, it is tough to take the Sky unless that point spread drops to -5 or so. If she is healthy and ready to go, pull the trigger on Chicago -9.5.
WNBA Playoff Prediction Today: Sky -9.5
WNBA Pick: Mercury vs. Aces Game 2
The final score of this game was a bit misleading, considering the Aces didn’t lead by more than 10 points until the four-minute mark in the fourth quarter. However, the Aces were missing a lot of open shots – particularly throughout the first half. A’ja Wilson started the game just 1-for-7 from the field as she couldn’t find her touch. Las Vegas shot 40% from the field and just 30% from 3 on their way to posting 79 points.
When betting this one, it’s important to remember just how bare this Phoenix team is. They will once again be without Diana Taurasi, Skylar Diggins-Smith and now most likely Shey Peddy. While the Aces should dominate the Mercury, they are favored by 16.5 points, which is very high for a playoff matchup. Instead of reaching, roll with the point total under 167.5.
One thing to count on in this game (and series) is that Phoenix will have a hard time scoring points with its depleted roster. It’s easier to bank on the point total staying low, rather than betting that one team plays well and the other plays horribly. The Aces will win this game, and think they can get it done relatively early on, based on what’s expected from the Mercury offense. If the game is lopsided before the fourth quarter starts, this point total should stay under.
WNBA Playoff Prediction Today: Under 167
