The Liberty outplayed the Aces at the Barclay’s in Game 1. But can the 2x defending champions bounce back from this tough loss? Fueled by the sting of last year’s defeat, New York showed the gates to the visiting Las Vegas in a thrilling showdown that underscored their status as the team to beat this season.

With Game 2 right around the corner, loyalists on both ends would want to know just who will showcase their topmost performance on the floor. And as the series heats up, the focus shifts not only to the court but also to each team’s health and lineup decisions.

Las Vegas vs New York: Injury report and starting five

Fortunately for both teams, neither is dealing with any injuries heading into Game 2. This marks a welcome contrast to last year’s Finals, where injuries plagued both squads and affected their performance. As the rematch of last season’s championship unfolds, fans can look forward to an intense showdown at 7:30 PM ET on Tuesday at the Liberty’s home turf, the Barclays Center.

For the Aces, Chelsea Gray is more than ready to take down anyone that comes their way for a threepeat. The ‘Point Gawd’ rightly believes that the fall is the season for the players to show their true mights and she surely is following her words. As for the Liberty, from Courtney Vandersloot to Betnijah Laney Hamilton, all are in perfect health. Indeed, ready to bring their first championship to the ‘Big Apple’.

As per the latest reports, the Aces are expected to stick to a familiar lineup of Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, Jackie Young, Kiah Stokes, and A’ja Wilson. While, Sabrina Ionescu, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, Breanna Stewart, Leonie Fiebich, and Jonquel Jones will be the starting 5 for the Sandy Brondello-led team.

Predictions for the hot-headed knockout matchup

As per ESPN’s matchup predictor, NY Liberty has a 60.9 % chance to win in Game 2 compared to the LV Aces 39.1%. This is not surprising as Game 1 saw a complete lockdown on the scoring potential of the Aces.

In fact Game 1 was defined by the Liberty’s exceptional shooting and defensive presence. They shot 50% from the field and an impressive 42.1% from beyond the arc, with Sabrina Ionescu knocking down multiple clutch threes. The Liberty’s aggressive defense also forced the Aces into 12 turnovers, and their ability to contain A’ja Wilson and limit second-chance points was pivotal in the 87-77 victory. On the defensive end, Jonquel Jones alone had a total of 12 rebounds while the Aces as a team had only 22 rebounds.

According to former player and ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike, “A’ja was contested on 14 of her 16 shots even though she still got 20. If I’m the Aces and you heard Becky Hammon right there, they’ve got to find ways to get her downhill so when they come, it’s too late.”

The Aces can bounce back as a team with Chelsea Gray providing great looks for A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum. They just might be able to pry open the Liberty’s defense in Game 2.

As the LV Aces hunt for their 3-peat, will they be stopped in their tracks by the fiery Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, or will A’ja Wilson and Co. bounce back to secure a stunning victory and go on to win the finals?