Lynx's Dynamic Duo Dominates
Minnesota Lynx Defeat Las Vegas Aces 92-87, Led by Miles and Coffey
The Minnesota Lynx defeated the Las Vegas Aces 92-87 on the road at Michelob Ultra Arena, with Olivia Miles and Nia Coffey leading the way. Miles finished with 23 points and eight assists, while Coffey came off the bench to score 12 points and grab four rebounds in 26 minutes, according to Star Tribune.
The win pushed Minnesota's record to 29-7, the best in the WNBA. The Lynx have now won four straight games and hold a 3.5-game lead over the Golden State Valkyries for the No. 1 playoff seed, per Sporting News.
Coffey Steps Up While Collier Sits With Foul Trouble
Star forward Napheesa Collier picked up multiple personal fouls in the third quarter, forcing her to the bench at a critical moment. Coffey filled the gap in a big way. She scored all 12 of Minnesota's bench points, making her the only reserve to score in the game, according to Star Tribune.
Star Tribune noted it was Coffey's best performance since Collier returned from double ankle surgery on July 22. Coffey's ability to hold the lead while Collier sat was key to Minnesota closing out the win.
Miles Paces Balanced Lynx Attack With 23 Points
Olivia Miles was the team's top scorer with 23 points and eight assists. She controlled the game's pace and kept the offense running even when Collier was off the floor. All five Lynx starters finished with 12 or more points, a sign of just how balanced the attack was, per Star Tribune.
That kind of depth is hard to defend. Minnesota did not rely on one player to carry the load. Every starter contributed, making it tough for Las Vegas to key in on any single threat.
Aces' 7-0 Run Fell Just Short of a Comeback
Las Vegas was not done fighting. The Aces opened the fourth quarter with a 7-0 run to get back in the game, according to Star Tribune. That burst gave the home crowd hope, but Minnesota steadied itself and held on to win by five.
The final score of 92-87 shows how close the Aces came. But Minnesota's depth proved to be the difference. Even without Collier at full strength, the Lynx had enough to get the job done.
Lynx Tighten Their Hold on WNBA's Top Playoff Spot
Minnesota's 29-7 record is the best in the league. Their 3.5-game cushion over the Golden State Valkyries makes them the clear favorite for the No. 1 seed heading into the playoffs, according to Yahoo Sports.
Four straight wins show this team is peaking at the right time. With Collier back from surgery and role players like Coffey stepping up, the Lynx look like the team to beat in the WNBA, per Sporting News.
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