Liberty Struggle with Rebounding as Season Nears End, Impacting Playoff Hopes

What's Happening?

The New York Liberty are facing significant challenges with rebounding as the WNBA season approaches its conclusion. Despite being one of the top rebounding teams last season, the Liberty have been consistently outrebounded this year, with opponents averaging 2.5 more boards per game. This issue has been highlighted by their recent loss to the Chicago Sky, where they were outrebounded 42-27. The absence of Breanna Stewart, who averages 6.5 rebounds per game, has exacerbated the problem. However, the rebounding difficulties are not limited to Stewart or Jonquel Jones; it is a team-wide issue. Players like Sabrina Ionescu have acknowledged the need for guards to assist in rebounding efforts. The Liberty's upcoming game against the Atlanta Dream, the league's leading rebounding team, will be crucial as they attempt to address these challenges.

Why It's Important?

The Liberty's rebounding struggles have significant implications for their playoff aspirations. Rebounding is a critical component of basketball, affecting both defensive and offensive plays. The inability to secure rebounds leads to more scoring opportunities for opponents and limits the Liberty's chances to score on second-chance points. As the season winds down, addressing this issue is vital for the Liberty to maintain their competitive edge and secure a favorable position in the playoffs. The team's performance in upcoming games, particularly against strong rebounding teams like the Dream, will be pivotal in determining their postseason success.

What's Next?

The Liberty must focus on improving their rebounding strategy in the remaining games of the season. This includes enhancing team coordination and ensuring that both bigs and guards contribute effectively to rebounding efforts. The coaching staff, led by Sandy Brondello, will likely emphasize these aspects in practice sessions. The upcoming match against the Atlanta Dream will serve as a critical test of the Liberty's ability to adapt and overcome their rebounding deficiencies. Success in this area could bolster their confidence and performance as they head into the playoffs.