Can Valkyries overtake Lynx’s top playoff seed? Our WNBA playoff picture forecast

As the WNBA playoff race nears its final four games, it remains uncertain which teams will secure the coveted top playoff seed. The Atlanta Dream and Las Vegas Aces are the clear frontrunners, with the Dream boasting a 94-percent likelihood of being the No. 1 seed. Meanwhile, the Golden State Valkyries are in position to secure the No. 2 seed, while the Las Vegas Aces are hot on their heels.

However, the picture is far from clear-cut as several tiebreakers remain undecided. The Minnesota Lynx, who have been the top seed for most of the season, have been usurped as the title favorite, with the Valkyries now taking the top spot. The Golden State Valkyries' defense has been exceptional, and Tiffany Hayes' drives have been instrumental in their recent success.

In contrast, the Minnesota Lynx's offense has struggled recently, and their defense has suffered against Atlanta. With so much at stake, every game between playoff teams carries significant importance. The next six games will shape the playoff landscape: New York hosts Minnesota on Friday, September 18, followed by Washington at Indiana on Sunday, September 20, and a match-up between Atlanta and New York on Monday, September 21.

The final two games will see Minnesota versus Indiana on Tuesday, September 22, and Atlanta versus New York on Wednesday, September 23. The Lynx must secure at least one win to maintain their No. 1 seed and homecourt advantage throughout the playoffs.