The Mystics clearly aren’t ready to tank yet. But is that really the right path to take in your opinion?
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the WNBA and NBA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Washington Mystics fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.
The Washington Mystics look like they will be lottery bound in 2024 and were the worst team in the WNBA standings. But after an 0-12 start, they are 8-10 since then and have gone on a two-game win streak.
There are still ten more games left in the season, and it’s not out of the question that the Mystics could make the 2024 WNBA Playoffs. But doing so will shut them out of the lottery, where UConn guard Paige Bueckers is widely regarded to be the top pick. She will likely be a new franchise player for any team she’s on.
Even if the Mystics don’t draft her, all hope isn’t lost for them to compete for championships longer term. The WNBA will likely have a new CBA in 2026 and nearly every star in the league will be a free agent. Someone decent will wear a Mystics uniform. But will that decent player also be one who can be box office like Elena Delle Donne was from 2017-23?
Our one survey question is this: do you think the Mystics’ long term future is better if they tank for the 2025 WNBA Draft, or if they just make a run for the 2024 WNBA Playoffs? Let us know with a VOTE! Then comment below.
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