PREVIEW: The Minnesota Lynx will host the Golden State Valkyries in the first round of the WNBA playoffs, continuing their season-long dominance after finishing with a league-best 34-10 record. The Lynx are led by MVP candidate Napheesa Collier, who averages an impressive 22.9 points, complemented by a diverse offensive lineup including two-way forward Kayla McBride and the dynamic backcourt duo of Courtney Williams and Natisha Hiedeman. Minnesota boasts the league's highest-scoring offense at 86.4 points per game, leads in assists with 23.4 per game, and has the best defensive rating, forcing opponents to turn the ball over an average of 15.4 times while scoring under 80 points. Interestingly, the Lynx rank 1st in efficient 3-point shooting, efficient rim attacks, and good passing. The Valkyries are completing their inaugural season with an impressive 23-21 record - the most wins by an expansion team in WNBA history - and come into the playoffs after a recent loss to the Seattle Storm where Janelle Salaun recorded 24 points and Veronica Burton notched a double-double. Golden State ranks 1st in high-frequency 3-point shooting and limiting shots at the rim on defense, though they struggle with defensive 3-point quality and have a high turnover rate. The regular season series wasn't particularly competitive, with the Lynx winning all four matchups and Golden State unable to defeat Minnesota. The playoff series will begin Sunday at noon at Target Center, with Game 2 scheduled for Wednesday at Chase Center, and a potential Game 3 on Friday if necessary.