Sports Handicapper Joey Tron's Picks & Predictions

The Over 174.5 is attractive because Dallas possesses one of the league’s most productive and balanced offenses, ranking fourth in scoring and second in assists. The Wings just produced 98 points in an overtime loss to New York despite playing without Paige Bueckers, and they shot 47.4% while committing only seven turnovers. Portland should also find scoring opportunities against a Dallas team playing its third game in four days, including Monday’s physically demanding overtime contest. The first meeting finished only 84–83, but Dallas has developed into a more explosive offensive team and now brings multiple scoring options alongside Arike Ogunbowale. With the Wings capable of reaching the upper 80s or low 90s and Portland positioned to benefit from tired defensive legs, this game has a strong chance to clear 174.5. -Joey Tron

The Under 178.5 is the preferred angle in a matchup featuring a Phoenix offense that has struggled to produce consistently throughout the season. The Mercury enter at 8–18 and rank only 11th in scoring and 12th in assists, making it difficult to expect them to do their part in a game that would likely need both teams to approach 90 points. Los Angeles has more offensive talent, but its defensive issues are already reflected in an elevated total. These teams’ previous two meetings reached 185 and 213 points, but the latter required overtime, creating some inflation in the rematch number. With Phoenix more comfortable playing through half-court possessions and Los Angeles potentially controlling the game from ahead, this sets up as a contest that finishes closer to the low-to-mid 170s. -Joey Tron

Chicago catching 8.5 points offers value against a New York team that has not consistently played like a dominant favorite. The Liberty recently needed overtime to defeat Dallas 99–98, snapping a four-game losing streak during which they had dropped eight of ten games. Chicago enters at 9–17, but the Sky rank fourth in the WNBA in assists per game and have enough experienced guard play to remain competitive if they protect the basketball. New York is also playing on limited recovery after Monday’s overtime battle, while Chicago has had additional preparation time. The Liberty may ultimately escape with another victory, but laying nearly double digits with a team that has struggled to create separation is difficult to trust. Take the Sky +8.5 to keep this matchup within the number. - Joey Tron