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Lynx Defeat Dream 88-63, Take Command of WNBA Finals

Once again the Lynx were in complete control of game two at Target Center. They are now one win away from a second championship in three years.

By Eric in Madison
Marilyn Indahl-USA TODAY Sports

Though not quite the early blowout that game one was, the result was the same at Target Center tonight: A big Lynx win before a loud and energetic crowd that pushed their series with the Dream to the brink.  The Lynx head to Georgia with a 2-0 series lead needing only one more victory to clinch the title.

Tonight's game showed off the true wealth of talent the Lynx enjoy. Clearly stung by her dominance in game one, the Dream came out determined to slow down Maya Moore.  Refusing her space, bumping her off her cuts, and not leaving her to help on others had it's intended effect early: Moore had only four first half points, all on free throws.  However, she also took only two first half shots, refusing to force the action as she helped facilitate her teammates and the Lynx built a 15 point halftime advantage.

It started with Lindsay Whalen driving relentlessly to the hoop for baskets, fouls, and dishes.  The Lynx forgotten All-Star, Rebekkah Brunson and center Janel McCarville got off to hot starts early as well, taking advantage of the spaces left by Whalen's drives, and finishing around the basket.

Seimone Augustus got herself going in the second quarter with an array of curls and drives to the basket for which the Dream had no answer.  In the meantime, Atlanta once again was unable to find an offensive rhythm as Angel McCoughtry got into early foul trouble. A 5-18 night makes her 11-42 in series so far, abysmal shooting that the Dream cannot overcome.

Atlanta hung around in the 3rd quarter, cutting their deficit to 10 at one point, they were unable to get any closer, and eventually the Lynx pulled away, pushing their lead over 20 midway through the 4th quarter, at which point Cheryl Reeve emptied the bench.

The Lynx are in complete control as the series shifts to Georgia for game three on Thursday night.

Notes:

  • All five Lynx starters finished in double figures, with Seimone Augustus leading the way with 20 points.
  • Rebekkah Brunson recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. She added four assists as well.
  • The Lynx attempted only one three pointer in the game, a Janel McCarville miss.
  • After shooting 49% in game one, the Lynx upped that to a remarkable 57% tonight.
  • The Dream were held under 40% shooting for the 2nd straight time in this series.