Mystics vs. Lynx preview: Washington looks to bounce back after second straight loss

The Mystics host the Lynx on Thursday. Here’s what to look for!

Game info

When: Thursday June 7 at 4 p.m. EST

Where: Capital One Arena

How to watch: NBC Sports Washington (local TV) | WNBA League Pass will stream it if you are outside of the D.C. area.

Injuries: The Mystics will likely miss Elena Delle Donne due to illness and Natasha Cloud has kidney stones. Tayler Hill is still in rehab.

Storylines to watch

Both teams are in the midst of losing streaks

The Lynx (2-5) are on a 4-game losing streak while the Mystics (5-3) have lost their last 2 games. It all comes down to who wants it more.

We can count on the Mystics’ young talent to show up

The last time the Mystics played the Lynx, rookie Myisha Hines-Allen was a defensive nuisance for Sylvia Fowles while netting 15 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Ariel Atkins put up 14 points and sophomore Shatori Walker-Kimbrough scored 9 points in the 5 and a half minutes she played. Washington is going to need that same energy going into this game.

Packed arena could give Washington an energy boost

The game has been sold out thanks to Capitals fans that are attending the official watch party following the Mystics game. There’s nothing like hometown love so hopefully it gives Washington the spark they need especially during the last quarters.

Who will come out on top?

The Mystics have beaten the Lnyx twice, once during pre-season and another time just a few weeks ago, but going into their third match-up, there’s no telling if they will pull off a win. The Mystics are going to have to show up from tip-off in order to stay in the game. With Elena Delle Donne out due to an undisclosed illness and Kristi Toliver putting up inconsistent numbers, Washington is going to have to rely Ariel Atkins, Tianna Hawkins, and its young talent to contribute more than usual. The game can easily go either way.