Preview: In the fourth quarter of a 113-95 loss in Wednesday's Game 1, Phoenix coach Sandy Brondello left four of her starters on the bench. Expect those four — Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, Penny Taylor and Candice Dupree — to play more aggressively after a beatdown in which they trailed by as many as 25 points. The Lynx and the Mercury both hope to improve on their defensive performances; in Game 1, the Lynx shot 64 percent, Phoenix 54 percent. The best-of-five series moves to Phoenix for Game 3 on Sunday.
Players to watch: Griner, who averaged 9.5 rebounds in the first two rounds of the playoffs, said it was "ridiculous'' and ''unacceptable'' that she got only two in Game 1. Look for her to get more physical underneath. Lynx center Sylvia Fowles had 16 points, a game-high 10 rebounds and two blocks.
Numbers: The Lynx are 8-2 against Phoenix in the playoffs, 5-0 at home.
Injuries: Lynx center Janel McCarville (back spasms) and guard Anna Cruz (lower back/hip contusion) are questionable as is Phoenix C Kelsey Bone (elbow).
RACHEL BLOUNT
