WNBA · September 24, 2026 · 10:16 PM ET
Las Vegas Aces @ Phoenix Mercury
Free LineCrush game report for Las Vegas Aces @ Phoenix Mercury on September 24, 2026, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Aces rotation tightening around Wilson and Gray
Las Vegas is expected to shrink its rotation to just eight players for this finale, guaranteeing heavy volume for core locks like A'ja Wilson and Chelsea Gray. This strategic shift places an immense physical burden on a roster Becky Hammon admits is already running out of gas and struggling to sprint into screens.
SourceCopper and Thomas fuel Mercury momentum
Kahleah Copper enters following a game-winning buzzer-beater against Dallas, with opponents like Paige Bueckers highlighting her aggressive downhill scoring. Alyssa Thomas continues to serve as the league's premier connective hub, coming off a massive 15-point, 11-rebound, 12-assist triple-double performance.
SourceFrontcourt availability and depth concerns
The Aces are navigating significant frontcourt shifts as NaLyssa Smith is currently rebuilding leg muscles through pool rehab, suggesting her season has ended prematurely. While Cheyenne Parker-Tyus is being elevated in two-big looks, the unstable second unit puts extra pressure on the starters to cover defensive gaps.
SourcePhoenix lineup stability and efficiency
Noemie Brochant is confirmed as a starting forward for Phoenix, bringing top-five DHO efficiency to the floor. Conversely, the Mercury backcourt faces uncertainty as Kelsey Plum was ruled out of recent contests and missed the FIBA World Cup due to injury concerns.
Pick Ideas
A'ja Wilson rebound volume
With the Aces rotation expected to shrink to eight players and NaLyssa Smith sidelined, Wilson is projected for heavy minutes and recently logged a season-high 15 minutes at center. Her explicit focus on defensive consistency over offensive flow supports a look at her rebounding totals.
Jackie Young assists over
Coach Hammon has specifically praised Young's maturity in reading pick and roll coverages, and the absence of Smith forces Young to carry a massive playmaking load. A tighter rotation guarantees the minute volume necessary to rack up high assist numbers.
Chelsea Gray production under
Despite her offensive gravity being essential to the Aces, Gray is facing increased physical wear and tear and is expected to have her minutes managed. The team's overall fatigue and depth issues suggest her combined points, rebounds, and assists may fall below typical projections.
Alyssa Thomas triple-double watch
Thomas is coming off a game where she recorded 12 assists and 11 rebounds, proving she remains Phoenix's primary engine. Because the Aces are struggling with fatigue and losing 50/50 balls, Thomas is well-positioned to dominate the glass and transition playmaking.
Kahleah Copper scoring over
Copper is playing with extreme confidence after eliminating Dallas with a buzzer-beater and receiving praise for her downhill aggression. Las Vegas has admitted to struggling with defensive energy, which plays directly into Copper's strengths as a driver.
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