With the 2025 WNBA season set to tip off in May, here's a quick preview of each Western Conference team, including their current championship odds as provided by Draft Kings.
Las Vegas Aces
The Las Vegas Aces, two-time champions in 2022 and 2023, are poised for a strong comeback in 2025 and priced accordingly with +350 odds to win the WNBA title. Their core, led by A'ja Wilson, remains intact, and the addition of six-time All-Star Jewell Loyd via a three-team trade with Seattle adds significant firepower to their roster. The Aces also bolstered their bench by acquiring Dana Evans from Chicago and signing Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, aiming to address depth issues that hampered them in the previous season.
Despite these strategic moves, the departure of Kelsey Plum to the Los Angeles Sparks leaves a void in their backcourt. However, with Wilson's leadership and the new additions, the Aces are expected to remain top contenders in the Western Conference. Their offseason adjustments reflect a commitment to reclaiming their championship status.
Minnesota Lynx
The Minnesota Lynx are entering the 2025 season with a sense of urgency and sit just behind the Aces as far as championship odds go at +380. After a surprising run to the WNBA Finals in 2024, they aim to capitalize on their current roster before potential changes in the upcoming collective bargaining agreement. Key players like Napheesa Collier and Courtney Williams are central to their success, and the team has made minor additions, including Marième Badiane and Grace Berger, to strengthen their lineup.
With most of their core players on contracts expiring after this season, the Lynx view 2025 as a pivotal year. Their focus will be on maintaining team cohesion and building upon last season's momentum. If they can replicate their previous performance, the Lynx could be strong contenders for the championship.
Phoenix Mercury
The Phoenix Mercury have undergone significant changes in the offseason, most notably with the acquisition of Alyssa Thomas from the Connecticut Sun. Thomas, known for her versatility and leadership, is expected to have a substantial impact on the team's performance. Her addition aims to revitalize the Mercury's roster and improve their competitiveness in the Western Conference. Veteran Satou Sabally also joins the squad by way of Dallas.
The Mercury's championship odds stand at +1400 and the integration of Thomas and Sabally into the team dynamics will be crucial. If they can effectively mesh with the existing roster and elevate the team's play in short order, Phoenix could exceed expectations and emerge as a contender in 2025.
Los Angeles Sparks
The Los Angeles Sparks have made notable moves in the offseason, including acquiring Kelsey Plum from the Las Vegas Aces. Plum's addition brings a new level of offensive prowess to the team. Alongside her, the Sparks have added Mercedes Russell and Australian import Shaneice Swain, aiming to bolster their roster depth.Under the guidance of new head coach Lynne Roberts following Curt Miller's exit, the Sparks are focusing on integrating these new talents and developing team chemistry. While their championship odds are currently at +5000, the team's success will largely depend on how quickly the new players adapt and contribute to overall team performance.
Seattle Storm
The Seattle Storm are in a rebuilding phase, highlighted by the departure of Jewell Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces. This significant change marks a new era for the team as they look to develop emerging young stars and reestablish themselves in the league. The Storm's focus will be on nurturing their youthful roster and building a cohesive unit for future success.With championship odds at +6000, the Storm are not immediate contenders. However, their commitment to developing a strong foundation could pay dividends in the coming seasons. The team's progress will be closely watched as they navigate this transitional period.
Dallas Wings
The Dallas Wings are looking to the future with the signing of Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Bueckers' arrival brings excitement and potential to the franchise, as she is expected to make an immediate impact on the court. Her presence, alongside existing talents, aims to rejuvenate the Wings' performance.
With their championship odds at a lofty +7500, the Wings are focusing on developing their young core and building team chemistry. The integration of Bueckers into the lineup will be a key factor in determining the team's success this season. If the young roster can gel effectively, Dallas could surprise many in the league.
Golden State Valkyries
As a new expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries are embarking on their inaugural season in the WNBA. Their entry into the league represents an exciting development, aiming to tap into the rich basketball culture of the Bay Area. The Valkyries are focusing on building a competitive roster through strategic acquisitions and player development with Natalie Nakase in place as the team's first head coach.Projected by most to finish last place in the WNBA this season with championship odds at +30000, expectations are obviously tempered for their first season. However, the team's long-term vision is centered on establishing a strong foundation and gradually becoming a competitive presence in the league. While there are a lot of questions to be answered, the Valkyries' progress will be an intriguing storyline to follow as they navigate the challenges of their debut season.
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