The Washington Mystics’ run in the 2018 WNBA Playoffs took a dramatic turn Tuesday night when Elena Delle Donne had to be helped off the court with a knee injury. Without her in the game, the Mystics lost a close Game 2, 78-75, to the Atlanta Dream.
But the Mystics were happy to split the first two games on the road. This weekend, they bring the series back to Washington for Games 3 and 4, and they received good news upon learning Delle Donne’s injury was a bone bruise with no ligament damage. Delle Donne remains questionable to play in Game 3.
Here’s everything else you need to know to continue following this exciting series that will determine which side advances to the WNBA Finals.
Opponent: Atlanta Dream (series tied 1-1)
Where: Charles E. Smith Center at George Washington University, Washington
When: Friday, Aug. 31, 8 p.m.
Television: ESPN News
What to watch for: Thibault said Thursday that Tianna Hawkins would be the likely candidate to run plays designed for Delle Donne if the star can’t play. Hawkins did not score in 10 minutes on the floor in Game 2, but scored double-digits off the bench in the Mystics’ previous two playoff games. … The Mystics finally missed a free throw Tuesday. Three, actually, after starting the playoffs 33-for-33 in their first two games, a WNBA record. Don’t worry, they’re still averaging .939 from the stripe in the playoffs. … Dream forwards Elizabeth Williams and Jessica Breland have combined for 48 rebounds over two postseason games, and Breland blocked an incredible 11 shots in Games 1 and 2. … Both games of this series so far have been decided by three points.
Pre-game reading:
“LaToya Sanders, Mystics center, takes pride in defensive production,” by Adam Zielonka
“Delle Donne questionable for Game 3 with bone bruise in knee,” by Adam Zielonka
“Mystics dominate Sparks to punch ticket to WNBA semis,” by Adam Zielonka
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