Washington Mystics vs Connecticut Sun Preview

Mystics  vs Sun

When: Thursday, Aug 21st, at 7:00 p.m.

Where: Mohegan Sun Arena, Uncasville, CT

TV: League Pass | Monumental Sports Network

Injury

Mystics: Georgia Amoore (Out for the Season/ACL), Jacy Sheldon (Out/ Right Ankle Injury)

Sun: No Injuries to report

Keep An Eye on: 

Bench Production: The Washington Mystics enter Thursday’s matchup with a clear point of emphasis—bench production. In their recent loss to the Sun, Washington’s reserves were thoroughly outplayed, getting outscored 45-11. Connecticut’s bench duo of Saniya Rivers and Olivia Nelson-Ododa provided the spark, with Rivers pouring in 17 points on 6-9 shooting and Nelson-Ododa adding 15 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists. Their energy and versatility swung the momentum, exposing Washington’s lack of depth. For the Mystics to have any chance of avenging that loss, their second unit must rise to the occasion and match Connecticut’s firepower.

Washington’s reserves struggled to make an impact on Tuesday, producing just 11 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists combined, shooting 3-9 from the field. That lack of scoring punch not only put more pressure on the starters but also gave Connecticut’s second unit the freedom to dictate the pace of the game. The Mystics need greater contributions across the board—whether it’s knocking down open shots, crashing the glass, or providing defensive stops. Players off the bench will be critical in giving the Mystics’ starters some breathing room, especially as the schedule tightens with tougher opponents on the horizon.

This game carries even more weight considering Washington’s playoff positioning. Currently sitting just a game and a half behind the Seattle Storm for the eighth and final playoff spot, every matchup is pivotal down the stretch. After Thursday’s clash with Connecticut, the Mystics face a daunting back-to-back homestand against two of the league’s elite—the Las Vegas Aces and Seattle Storm. That makes a strong performance and potentially a win against the Sun not only a confidence boost but also a necessity. All hands will need to be on deck if Washington hopes to keep their playoff hopes alive in an ultra-competitive race for seeding.