Game 5 preview: Los Angeles at Lynx

October 20, 2016 at 2:12AM

Preview: For the second year in a row, the Lynx will play a Game 5 at home for the WNBA championship. Last year, they beat Indiana 69-52 before a crowd announced at 18,933, the largest in franchise history. The Lynx are 4-3 against the Sparks this season, 1-2 at Target Center. A victory would give the Lynx their fourth championship in six seasons, while the Sparks are trying to win their first WNBA title since winning back-to-back in 2001 and 2002.

Players to watch: After scoring nine points in Game 3, Lynx F Maya Moore had 31 in Game 4. Sparks G Kristi Toliver said "that can't happen'' again. Lynx C Sylvia Fowles has had double-doubles in three of the four games and is averaging 11.3 rebounds per game. The Sparks need C Candace Parker to be at her best; she is averaging 19 points and nine rebounds in the Sparks' two Finals victories, and 10 points and 3.5 rebounds in the two losses.

Numbers: The Lynx are 24-4 in playoff games at home. … Lynx F Rebekkah Brunson can win her fifth WNBA title. She has three with the Lynx and one with Sacramento.

Injuries: Lynx C Janel McCarville (back spasms) is questionable.

RACHEL BLOUNT

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