Mystics at Lynx final score: Emma Meesseman scores 19 in 86-79 loss

The Mystics lost 86-79 to the Lynx on Friday in Minneapolis. Emma Meesseman scored 19 points on 8-of-13 shooting to lead Washington. Odyssey Sims scored 20 points while Sylvia Fowles scored 19 more for Minnesota.

Here are the main takeaways from Friday.

Emma Meesseman is letting you know that she isn’t a “bench player”

The Mystics’ longest-tenured player started in place of Elena Delle Donne who sat out the game to rest. As you can see, she had the individual performance you expect out of her at this point. She also did this in just 22 minutes. If she got to play 30, maybe the outcome of this game would be different.

Meesseman however only attempted two free throws. Yes, she made them. But if Delle Donne “Meesseman-ized” her game last year to be a more willing passer, then Meesseman needs to “Delle Donne-ize” her game a little more than she has the last few years by taking more shots in traffic and getting to the free throw line.

The backcourt must improve its scoring efficiency

Kristi Toliver and Natasha Cloud made a combined 2-of-11 shots on Friday. Absolutely unacceptable. I don’t care if it’s the preseason.

Toliver was by far the worse shooter where she only went 1-of-8 from the field. In fact, no other Mystics players scored in double digits.

Meanwhile for Minnesota, Danielle Robinson scored 13 points on 5-of-11 shooting as the starting point guard alongside Sims who came off the bench. To be honest, this game probably should have been a blowout win for Minnesota.

Next Game

The Mystics head to Atlanta next Friday, May 17 in their final preseason game. Tip off is at 7 p.m. ET.