The Money Line: WNBA odds, predictions for Tuesday, August 22

San Antonio Stars (+15, -110)
Los Angeles Sparks (-15, -110)
Total: 155

It what would have seemed like a ridiculous suggestion just a few weeks ago, the L.A. Sparks are actually within striking distance of Minnesota for the number one overall seed. The Sparks have five games left and find themselves just one and a half games back of Minnesota, making both of tonight’s games crucial. Something else that would have seemed absurd at the All-Star break was anyone besides Sylvia Fowles winning the MVP, but that too has now changed. It isn’t necessarily because Fowles has fallen off a cliff or anything (though she has had some stinkers) but rather it is because the rise of Candace Parker has come on quickly and strong. Parker is in the top 10 in points per game, rebounds per game, assists per game and blocks per game. Want to guess how many other players can say that this season? Spoiler alert: there aren’t any. L.A. is one of the best teams in both defensive and offensive ratings and they are getting hot at the right time.

I will continue to be impressed with San Antonio’s fight down the stretch, though I’ll also remained confused about the rotation being used. I’ll use Kayla Alexander as an example. Since July 30, here are her minutes listed out for every game since then: 6, 30, 21, 10, 11, 18, 3. Huh? In addition, the lack of playing time that Nia Coffey is getting would also suggest that the Stars are already giving up on the player they used the number five overall pick on in this year’s draft. The Stars gave Seattle a nice push last time out, losing by just one, in a game that San Antonio outshot and out rebounded Seattle but had 16 turnovers that ultimately undid them. The Stars are undoubtedly going down swinging, I’m just not sure if they one’s they are letting throw the punches are the right ones.

15 points is a big spread but I love the way L.A. is playing so I’ll take the Sparks and the over.