This was my thought process during the game as well. I have finally conceded to the idea that this is Chicago's Championship to lose. I will be shocked if they aren't in the finals.
Seattle on offense is playing 3 on 5, Gabby doesn't score, and Sue is definitely not much of a threat to score anymore.
Considering there is no more single elimination games anymore, it will be tougher to beat a top like last season. What impresses me about Chicago is that can lose people to foul trouble or even poor performance from a couple of players and still be in a position to beat the the other top teams. I just don't feel as confident with the other top teams.
The Sun have been knocking on the door for seemingly forever, but just can't break thru. I think that's primarily because J. Thomas and January just weren't a good enough pair of starting guards. Are C. Williams and Hiedeman actually an improvement? I think that's still not a Championship backcourt, regardless of how good they are up front. Chicago's front court was able to match the Sun in the playoffs last year, and their guards are just better.
Good call about the new format. I think getting in the top 3 is top priority for any of the 5 teams. As it stands now, Washington/Seattle would play a best of 3 head to head, the winner then has to beat Chicago and likely has Vegas or Connecticut waiting in the finals. That's brutal.
Agree about that being the primary concern for Seattle. Magbegor is efficient but most of her shots are going to Tina now. When Loyd is on she's fantastic, but consistency has never been her strong suit. Stewart is great but needs more help.
I feel more confident in Williams/Hiedeman. Jasmine Thomas had some red hot games but often struggled in big series and was more prone to taking a lot of shots when she was cold. January was a solid glue player but last year Connecticut could've used more perimeter offense. Williams is a better scorer/playmaker than either of the 2 and I think Hiedeman is a strong decision maker and capable scorer. They aren't my title pick but I think they have the pieces to get the job done (which was also the case in 2019, 2020, and 2021).
Was wondering the same thing. Point differential keeps hovering between 8 - 12 points.
