The Washington Mystics announced on Wednesday that Elena Delle Donne has a small disc herniation in her back. She will go through physical therapy and get reevaluated on Saturday. This is brutal for Delle Donne, who played through a bruised knee in last year’s Finals sweep. But at least, she still has a chance to play. More importantly, the Mystics still have a chance to win Game 3 and possibly the series with a hobbled EDD or without her entirely. It would take a herculean effort from the entire Washington organization, but they can do it and here’s how.
Emma Meesseman continues her play
Losing a 6’5 insanely talented big who can shoot, rebound, pass, and hold up defensively is obviously devastating. However, the Mystics can attempt to replace that player with a 6’4″ insanely talented big who can shoot, rebound, pass, and hold up defensively.
Emma Meesseman’s marvelous play continued in Game 2 of the WNBA Finals. She put up 23 points on 10 of 17 shooting and did everything she could to fill in for EDD. As I wrote yesterday, Meesseman’s screening ability, offensive shot creation, and spot up shooting make her a great fit into the MVP’s role.
Luckily for Washington, Meeseman is playing the best basketball of her career right now. Playoff Emma is averaging 19.8 points, 6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Her shooting percentage slash line looks fake: 58.8%/54.5%/87.5%.
Meesseman is now willing to be the focal point of the offense after her teammates encouraged her to take more shots all year. The team has called her the missing piece throughout the postseason. If she can keep up her pace, she will prove them right by making up for some of EDD’s lost production.
Gabe Ibrahim 