PREVIEW: The New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx are set to clash in a high-stakes WNBA matchup at Target Center, continuing their intense rivalry from last season's championship series. Both teams currently occupy the top spots in their respective conferences, with the Lynx holding a dominant 26-5 record and winning games with an impressive 11.3-point margin. The Liberty face significant challenges with injuries to key forwards, including Breanna Stewart (out with a knee injury until August 28), Isabelle Harrison (concussion protocol), and Nyara Sabally (knee injury targeting return on August 19). Emma Meesseman has emerged as a reliable force, delivering 24 points in each of her recent games. The Lynx have clinched a playoff berth and are focused on securing home-court advantage, while the Liberty are battling to maintain their second-place standing and avoid potentially dropping to fourth place. Despite being without Napheesa Collier due to an ankle injury, the Lynx have not missed a beat, with midseason addition DiJonai Carrington strengthening their perimeter defense. Offensively, they lead the league with 87 points per game, powered by Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Alanna Smith, and boast a league-leading point differential of +11.4. The Liberty remain dangerous, with Sabrina Ionescu leading the charge at 19.3 points per game and Emma Meesseman making an immediate impact since joining, averaging 16.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists, including standout 24-point performances.