Can Liberty Bounce Back After Their Streak Was Snapped? Los Angeles Sparks vs New York Liberty Prediction | June 22, 2026
Los Angeles Sparks
New York Liberty
One of the most interesting WNBA games on June 22 takes place at Crypto.com Arena, where Los Angeles Sparks host New York Liberty. Both teams enter this matchup after losses, but their overall form and season trajectories remain very different.
Match Preview
Los Angeles Sparks have struggled for consistency throughout the season and arrive here on a two-game losing streak. After falling 78-58 to Golden State Valkyries, they were unable to slow down league-leading Minnesota Lynx in a 99-83 defeat. Against Minnesota, Rae Burrell led the team with 19 points, while Dearica Hamby contributed 12 points and 9 rebounds.
The Sparks currently sit sixth in the Western Conference with a 7-8 record. Their biggest issue has been home form, winning just two of eight games at Crypto.com Arena this season. While Los Angeles remains one of the better offensive teams in the league with 87.7 points per game, their defense continues to be a major concern, allowing 90.9 points per contest — one of the worst marks in the WNBA.
Another key factor is the status of Kelsey Plum. The Sparks' leading scorer and playmaker is listed as questionable, and her absence would significantly reduce the team's offensive firepower.
New York Liberty saw their eight-game winning streak come to an end with an 86-83 loss to Washington Mystics, but they remain one of the strongest teams in the league. Leonie Fiebich scored 19 points in that game, while Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones both recorded double-doubles.
The Liberty enter this matchup with an 11-5 record and sit second in the Eastern Conference. They have been excellent away from home, winning five of their six road games this season.
New York continues to excel on both ends of the floor. The Liberty average 88.6 points per game and own one of the league's best defenses, allowing just 82.6 points per contest. They also rank among the WNBA leaders in three-point shooting percentage (35.9%), free-throw percentage (85.8%), assists per game (21.0), and effective field goal percentage (53.9%).
Recent head-to-head meetings have also slightly favored New York. The Liberty have won three of the last five matchups, while Los Angeles has managed just one victory in its last five home games against New York.
Key Trends
- Los Angeles Sparks have lost 2 straight games.
- Sparks have won only 2 of 8 home games this season.
- New York Liberty have won 5 of 6 road games.
- Liberty rank among the WNBA's top teams in defensive rating (102.6).
- New York ranks top-five in assists per game (21.0).
- Liberty rank top-five in three-point percentage (35.9%).
Prediction
Despite the recent loss to Washington, New York remains one of the most complete teams in the league. The Liberty are significantly stronger defensively, have been excellent on the road, and possess more depth across the roster. Los Angeles can score points, but defensive struggles have repeatedly cost them games, especially against elite opponents. If Kelsey Plum is limited or unavailable, the challenge becomes even greater against one of the WNBA's best defensive units. With New York looking to immediately respond after ending their winning streak and the Sparks continuing to struggle at home, the visitors have a clear edge entering this matchup. Recommended Bet: New York Liberty Asian Handicap -4
