Preview: After the Lynx and Mercury combined to make 63 free throws in Friday's Game 2 — a WNBA playoff record — both teams hope to see a more free-flowing game as the series moves to Phoenix. The Lynx, who can sweep the best-of-five series with a victory, are 9-2 against the Mercury in postseason play, with a 3-2 mark on the road. During the regular season, the Lynx tied the league and franchise records for road victories, going 13-4 away from Target Center.
Players to watch: Lynx forward Maya Moore has scored more than 20 points in each of her team's five games against Phoenix, including 31 in Game 1 of the semifinals and 26 in Game 2. The Mercury needs more from center Brittney Griner, who has had minimal impact on the series; she has totaled 18 points and four rebounds.
Numbers: Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve is 31-10 in postseason play. Friday's victory moved her past Bill Laimbeer for most playoff victories by a WNBA coach. Guard Lindsay Whalen made her 67th playoff start Friday, which ties Tamika Catchings for the most in league history.
Injuries: Lynx center Janel McCarville (back spasms) and guard Anna Cruz (hip/lower back contusion) are questionable. Phoenix center Kelsey Bone (sprained elbow) is questionable.
rachel blount
