Atlanta’s Dynamic Duo Thrives Without Dependence
Both Gray and Howard are capable of filling up the stat sheet. They are the team’s primary creators, and they are responsible for fifty-four percent of Atlanta’s offensive production. Gray leads the team in scoring and is third on the team in assists per game, proving her worth as a secondary playmaker. Her scoring prowess is what makes their offense run efficiently, and defenses often send extra help to slow her down. She and Howard need to be accounted for on every possession.
Both players are capable of taking over offensively, but Howard is more aggressive. The 2022 WNBA Rookie of the Year is capable of getting to the basket with ease, but can light it up from beyond the arc as well. She currently leads the league with 3.6 three-pointers per game, and can shoot the lights out if she heats up. Gray is more technical and more of a playmaker. She takes what the defense gives her and can make plays for herself. Opponents need to pick their poison when deciding which player they want to limit.
The Fever’s backcourt of Kelsey Mitchell and Caitlin Clark packs quite a punch, but they still don’t measure up to the Dream’s dynamic duo. While the Fever have a more explosive attack, the Dream are more balanced. Indiana depends on their guards to carry the team. If Mitchell or Clark struggles, it’s difficult for them to win. Neither Gray nor Howard need the ball to have an impact on the game. The difference is that the Fever’s offense is built around playmaking and pace, while the Dream’s offensive philosophy was built around players who can create. the advantage goes to the Dream due to them not relying too heavily on their interchangeable scoring threats.
