WNBA Playoff Seeding Uncertain as Regular Season Nears End

As of September 23, 2026, with only two days remaining in the WNBA regular season, the playoff standings are still very much in flux. The top eight teams—Minnesota Lynx, Golden State Valkyries, Las Vegas Aces, Atlanta Dream, Indiana Fever, New York Liberty, Washington Mystics, and Dallas Wings—have secured their playoff spots, but seeds 2 through 8 remain undecided.

The Minnesota Lynx clinched the No. 1 seed on September 22 but entered a precarious position after a 96-77 loss to the Indiana Fever. Despite this setback, the Lynx had built a significant lead in the standings that allows for some margin of error. However, to aim for their first championship since 2017, they must improve defensively.

The Golden State Valkyries currently hold a 31-12 record. Following a 90-82 loss to the Portland Fire, they are positioned securely for the playoffs but can be either the No. 2 or No. 3 seed. Their chances at the No. 2 seed require a win or a loss by the Aces.

The Las Vegas Aces, at 30-13, are competing closely for the No. 2 seed as well. They secured an 89-79 win against the Los Angeles Sparks and need to win their next game against the Mercury, whom they faced in last season's Finals. A victory combined with a Valkyries loss could elevate them to the No. 2 seed.

The Atlanta Dream, with a record of 29-14, are on a strong run, having won eight of their last nine games. Their crucial matchup against the Liberty will determine whether they can secure homecourt advantage as the No. 4 seed.

The Indiana Fever, holding a 28-15 record, must replicate their recent success against the Lynx in their final game to have a shot at the No. 4 seed. Their playoff positioning could shift dramatically based on their performance and the outcomes of other games.

The Washington Mystics, currently at 27-16, have recently won six of seven games but have missed out on homecourt advantage. They can still secure the No. 5 seed with a win against the Chicago Sky, depending on other results.

The Dallas Wings, with a 26-17 record, were the last team to secure a playoff berth. They face Seattle in their final regular season game after a previously strong six-game winning streak. Their seeding potential hinges on their performance alongside the results of the Mystics and Liberty.

The New York Liberty, also at 26-17, face elimination in their next game if they lose again to the Dream. A win could potentially allow them to rise to the No. 6 seed, depending on other games, while a loss would solidify their position at No. 8.