Unrivaled: Laces vs. Lunar Owls Prediction, Pick for Monday 1/12/26
Get ready for an electrifying showdown as Meghan Townsley previews Monday's Unrivaled match between the Laces and the Lunar Owls. With Season 2 in full swing, all eyes are on this three-on-three battle of elite talent.
The Laces, fresh off a heart-wrenching loss to the Mist, are now 7.5-point road favorites on DraftKings Sportsbook, with an over/under of 136.5 points. But can they bounce back against a Lunar Owls team hit by injuries? Let's dive into the analysis.
Laces vs. Lunar Owls: The Battle of the Underdogs
The Laces are determined to turn things around after a narrow defeat to the Mist. Despite Brittney Sykes' impressive 29-point performance, the Laces fell short. Alyssa Thomas, Jackie Young, and Maddy Siegrist each contributed 12+ points, but Breanna Stewart's free throws sealed their fate. Now, they aim to reclaim their winning streak against a Lunar Owls squad dealing with injuries.
Sykes is a standout performer. Her 5-for-7 shooting from beyond the arc in just 15.6 minutes is remarkable, especially considering her 30.4% deep-shooting accuracy in her recent WNBA season. While her efficiency might not be sustainable, Sykes' aggressive scoring has made her the Laces' offensive catalyst. Thomas and Young, with their playmaking skills, have kept the Laces balanced and strong.
On the other hand, the Lunar Owls have faced early setbacks due to injuries. Beyond Napheesa Collier's absence, Skylar Diggins' lower leg/ankle injury has left them short-handed. However, Marina Mabrey has stepped up, scoring 23 points in her debut and 32 points against the Phantom. Aaliyah Edwards has also been a force on the boards, averaging 11.5 rebounds and 18.0 points.
But it's their defense that's been a concern. Giving up 94 points to the Phantom, the Owls have a league-worst -52 point differential. In a fast-paced three-on-three game, this defensive weakness could prove costly. The Laces, eager to secure a win, might capitalize on this vulnerability.
The Pick: Laces to Prevail
While the Lunar Owls have talent, their current form raises concerns. With Sykes' confidence and the Laces' well-balanced core, they seem poised for success. If the Owls' defense doesn't improve, the Laces might just take control of the game from the start.
Best Bet: Laces -7.5 (-115) (https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/leagues/basketball/unrivaled?category=game-lines&subcategory=game)
