Alexander Shun

Web Editor Associate | @alexpshun 

Before every game this season, I have given you all an in-depth scouting report on the Minnesota Lynx and their upcoming opponent. I’m sure you all enjoy reading them and getting the ins-and-outs of the match-up, but I thought it would be fun to get a fan’s perspective on the upcoming game. If this becomes popular or well-liked by fans then we’ll keep it going but this is the first time I’m doing something like this so just keep that in mind when reading it. Also, please remember that all fans are entitled to their respective opinions and should be treated respectfully.

If you would like to be chosen to give your perspective on any upcoming games, send me your contact information via tweet at @alexpshun or email me at Alexander.Shun@timberwolves.com and I’ll choose from the entries at random. For tonight’s game, Lynx fan Kevin Hall will be giving his breakdown of the Minnesota Lynx at Phoenix Mercury match-up.

What is going to be the biggest key to Minnesota’s success against the Phoenix Mercury?

Kevin: I think it’s definitely going to be all about Maya Moore scoring. I don’t want to put all the pressure on Maya but we saw that when she’s scoring, we’re winning. I know she had a long streak of scoring 20 or more points in a game and she’s proven that she can carry the load of a team herself. I think Whalen will definitely need to lead and play well, but Maya will be the deciding factor as to whether we win or lose.

What’s the biggest challenge that Phoenix presents Minnesota?

Kevin: The biggest challenge has to be their ability to score. I know that Brittney Griner is known for her defense and blocking shots and stuff, but [DeWanna Bonner] and [Candice Dupree] have been scoring at-will lately and could easily challenge our backcourt. The Lynx can score with the best teams in the WNBA but we need to stop them from scoring if we want to win. I think the last time we faced Phoenix, we proved that defense is how we’re going to beat them not only now but in the playoffs.

Who will be the surprise MVP of the game.

Kevin: Dev’ Peters has been really good off the bench for us lately and I think that she could really play well against the Mercury. I think we’re going to need her to play well. I wouldn’t be surprised if Dev’ scores 20 points and grabs 10 rebounds while blocking five or so shots. She’s that good. I know she played well the last time we played Phoenix and I think she will do it again. I just hope she gets the minutes to score that many points and be MVP.

What’s the outcome of the game going to be?

Kevin: I don’t think Lynx fans will like me very much if I pick against the Lynx so I’m definitely picking the Lynx. The Mercury have won [four] games in a row but I think [Maya] Moore and [Sylvia] Fowles are going to play angry after the loss to the Sparks and I think they’ll both have huge games and lead the Lynx to a win. Dev’ is going to play well as well, of course, but Maya and Fowles will be the stars. If I had to guess a score I’d say the Lynx win 78-65. Is that a good score?