New York Liberty (-2, -110)
Chicago Sky (+2, -110)
Total: 163
I don’t know if there was any situation absence of injury where you could have convinced me a few weeks ago that a game between these two would have this small of a spread. All credit to the Chicago Sky, however, as they have really turned things around and somehow find themselves within striking distance of the playoffs. Oddly enough, most of the Sky’s success has come on the road, going 6-7 in such games, while posting a woeful 2-8 record at home. The biggest difference has been their defense when they are away from the friendly confines. Ranking dead last in defensive rating when playing at home, Chicago’s rating soars all the way to second best when on the road, trailing only the mighty Minnesota Lynx. Toss in the stellar play of Allie Quigley and Stefanie Dolson, and suddenly the Sky have some reason to be optimistic.
Even-keel is perhaps the adjective you could use to describe the Liberty; never getting too high or too low. Their last game they found a way to eek out a win over the Fever thanks in large part to (who else?) Tina Charles and her 25 points. Bria Hartley also scored 17, her third game in the last four where she scored double digits. New York rebounds the ball at the best rate in the league in terms of rebounding percentage, and they own the third best defensive rating. Though they are struggling to find consistent play on the offensive end from players not named Charles, the Liberty are solid enough to be an issue.
I’ve been as impressed by anyone of Chicago’s recent success, and their style of play has been a true pleasure to watch. I’m still going to ride the Tina Charles train here though and take New York with the under.