1. Minnesota Lynx
They are the defending champions and should be No. 1 until someone proves otherwise.
2. Los Angeles Sparks
They kept their core and added veteran guard Cappie Pondexter.
3. New York Liberty
New coach (Katie Smith), new arena (Westchester County Center), finally a playoff breakthrough?
4. Connecticut Sun
Last year's surprise, with coach of the year (Curt Miller) and most improved player (Jonquel Jones). And Chiney Ogwumike is healthy.
5. Dallas Wings
Always able to score, and now Liz Cambage is back at center to defend the rim.
6. Phoenix Mercury
A talented core adds veteran guard Briann January.
7. Seattle Storm
Coach Dan Hughes comes out of retirement hoping to iron out this team's highs and lows.
8. Washington Mystics
Elena Delle Donne is there, but it's tough to start the season without Emma Meesseman (taking a break) and Tayler Hill (recovering from ACL surgery).
