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‘Just Falling Asleep’ — NBA Trainer Drew Hanlen Exposes Olivia Miles, Lynx’s Biggest Mistake That Led to Playoffs Exit

The Minnesota Lynx’s playoff hopes were dashed in a swift two-game sweep by the New York Liberty, ending their season before it could gain momentum. After dropping Game 1 by 16 points, the Lynx fell victim to a 16-point deficit in Game 2, losing 87-71 and bowing out of the postseason.

The defeat exposed critical defensive lapses, particularly against the Liberty’s drive-and-kick plays, where overzealous help defense left teammates exposed and struggling to recover. NBA trainer Drew Hanlen, analyzing the game on the *No Hesitation* podcast, noted that Minnesota’s defenders often ‘fell asleep’ on the wing, allowing open shots and undermining their offensive rhythm.

On the scoring front, Courtney Williams led the Lynx with 18 points, while Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride each contributed 14. Rookie of the Year Olivia Miles, however, struggled significantly, managing just five points on 1-of-8 shooting in limited playtime (17 minutes).

The Liberty dominated from the start, building a 26-21 lead in the first quarter and never relinquishing control, ultimately extending their advantage to 12 points by the third quarter before closing out the game in the fourth.

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