What happened: The Lynx (19-6) host the Liberty (15-10) at 1 p.m. ET on ABC, with the Miles-to-Howard connection pacing Minnesota — Olivia Miles is averaging 18.5 points and 4.8 rebounds this season, while Natasha Howard adds 17 points and 8 rebounds. Minnesota enters on a one-game winning streak after going 3-2 over its last five.
Why it matters: New York took the last meeting 99-86 on July 3, and Minnesota opens as a for the rematch. The Lynx lead the league at 88.7 points scored and 79.5 allowed per game, while the Liberty have dropped four of their last five entering the trade deadline stretch.
By the numbers: Lynx: 19-6, 88.7 PPG scored, 79.5 allowed, last five WLLWW. Liberty: 15-10, 87.8 PPG scored, 84.2 allowed, last five LWWLL. Last meeting: Liberty 99, Lynx 86 (July 3).
What to watch: Minnesota looks to answer its July 3 loss to New York in the head-to-head rubber match.