Bridget Carleton and Kayla McBride have been true flamethrowers against the Liberty, combining to shoot 28 of 51 from three-point range over the four games. Even for two players who shot above 40 percent during the regular season, that level of accuracy and volume is impressive — and one of the reasons New York allowed 83.3 points per game against Minnesota, about seven points above its season average.

The Liberty’s defense was statistically worse in the postseason, but that’s partly because they had to play Las Vegas four times in a row. New York has been more versatile and switchable since the last meeting against the Lynx, and that is a result of moving Fiebich into the starting lineup. Minnesota attacked Vandersloot relentlessly in the final regular season meeting, forcing help and creating open three-pointers. Fiebich should hold up better, even against a Lynx offense that prides itself on movement and intent. That should keep the Liberty out of rotation and prevent leaks at the three-point line.

Minnesota is still capable of getting hot from distance: Three players shot at least 40 percent from 3-point range during the regular season, and Alanna Smith was behind at 39.8. However, the Lynx offense relies on creating great looks, not on individual players undergoing heat checks. If New York can continue to play structurally sounder defense with its new lineup, Minnesota’s offensive firepower could diminish.