What happened: Minnesota, Washington, Golden State, Las Vegas, Dallas, Indiana, Atlanta and New York are projected to fill the eight playoff slots. Connecticut is forecast to secure the top lottery odds, while Indiana is expected to pursue a deadline deal.
Why it matters: Washington has an easier remaining schedule than its closest pursuers and owns a 2027 pick swap with Chicago, reducing any incentive to slide. Indiana faces future cap pressure with Aliyah Boston due a 20 percent supermax in 2027 and Caitlin Clark also becoming supermax-eligible.
By the numbers: Eight playoff berths are available across the 15-team league. Clubs have 15 to 18 games remaining, while four losses separate Washington from Portland, Toronto and Los Angeles.
What to watch: Watch for moves before Sunday’s deadline and whether Caitlin Clark or Angel Reese receives an eighth technical foul, which triggers a suspension.