It is not time to panic about the Washington Mystics, but…..
The season is just getting started. But if it ended today, the Mystics would be out of playoff contention. The season is off to a start that most wouldn’t expect. As the team is now 0-6 to start the season, there are some positives and negatives to take away.
A five-point loss to the New York Liberty
A seven-point loss to the Connecticut Sun
A nine-point loss to the Seattle Storm
A two-point loss to the Los Angeles Sparks
A three-point loss to the Phoenix Mercury
A 32-point loss to the Seattle Storm
Do you see a pattern? The Mystics were in the game until the last minute. For most of the game, the Mystics found themselves in a hole they put themselves in. The team, at times, knows what they are doing but tries to oversimplify the issues, and it can get out of hand.
The Washington Mystics look different coming into the season; however, Natasha Cloud (Free agency) and Elena Della Donne (Sitting for the season). This Mystic team has a different look, and questions were coming into the season. The two most significant areas in which the Mystics struggle are chemistry and pace. Let’s break it down.
With Brittney Sykes and Shakira Austin injured and on a minutes restriction, that strains how the offense looks regarding spacing the floor, rotation on defense, and minutes. Next, the Mystics have, at times, been inconsistent. As the games progress, there are positives in that area.
The Mystics’ oldest rookie, Julie Vanloo, should be in the conversation for Rookie of the Year. General Manager Mike Thibault has been finding gems in the Belgium Connection. She has transitioned smoothly into the system and played well in the starting lineup. Karlie Samuelson has adjusted well. Next, Aaliyah Edwards, as a rookie, is still developing. There are others on this roster whose roles remain unclear. What are they?
It is also important to note that the team has not had much time to practice during these first six games due to the condensed schedule (Olympic year).
The Mystics are a different team, but there is still plenty of time to turn around.
