As if the 2022 WNBA season can not get any more interesting, in pops week two. There was a bit of drama in Phoenix, some key injuries that kept players on the bench, and teams that welcomed returning players from their overseas leagues. Indiana the Aces have already played eight games, three teams have played seven, four have played six, and three teams have only played five games so far this season. Considering all of the interesting variables, the 2022 WNBA MVP Power Rankings are developing into a very intriguing competition.
BRITTNEY GRINER
There are no words or actions that justify Brittney Griner being wrongfully detained in Russia for over 94 days. It hurts to watch the Mercury play without BG, knowing if she were playing, Phoenix would be dominating the WNBA. Taking into account all the talent surrounding her, BG would have been a lock in for MVP. It is with much hope that BG returns home immediately. Whether she plays in the WNBA this season or not, BG has to be considered for the 2022 WNBA MVP. Players, teams, coaches, and fans are watching and they are counting on the White House to bring BG home.
A’JA WILSON
As of this week, A’Ja Wilson is starting to pull away from other contenders and illustrate why she is deserving of the 2022 WNBA MVP. After eight games, Wilson is averaging almost a double-double with 15.8 points and 9.3 rebounds a game, securing four double doubles this season. While she is surrounded by a lot of talent, the team revolves around Wilson. When she is on the court, her team benefits tremendously from her presence, her court sense, and her all around MVP game. Watch for Wilson to continue to cement MVP status as she leads her team to wins night in and night out.
SYLVIA FOWLES
Although the Lynx are an abysmal 1-6 this season, Sylvia Fowles is having an unforgettable final season. There appears to be no rhyme or reason to Minnesota’s lineup changes, in game substitutions, and overall game plan. None of this lack of continuity phases Fowles. Her numbers continue to impress as Fowles has four double-doubles and is averaging 17.9 points, 9.9 rebounds and she is shooting an amazing 65.9% from the field. If you missed the block party she held in Dallas on Saturday, it is worth a watch as she had four major blocks in the game. Please, Lynx get it together for your 2022 WNBA MVP contender.
RHYNE HOWARD
The only time a WNBA rookie won MVP and ROY was in 2008 and that honor went to Candace Parker. Add Rhyne Howard to the list of WNBA ROY and WNBA MVP candidates. Howard leads the league in scoring at 20.5 points per game, is tops in three pointers made at 21, and is 10th in the league in three point percentage at 46.7%. Not to mention the Dream are 4-2 thanks to her contributions. Howard puts the power into the 2022 WNBA MVP power rankings this week.
JACKIE YOUNG
Making her debut in the 2022 WNBA MVP power rankings, Jackie Young is having a breakout year. She is third in the league in scoring at 19.3 PPG, second in total points at 135 and sixth in steals at 2.0 per game. Young is proving to be a valuable asset to the Aces team. She shuts down opponents on defense and scores at will on offense. As the Aces settle into the season, look for Young to continue to dazzle and improve her WNBA MVP stock.
JONQUEL JONES
As the reigning MVP, one must not sleep on Jonquel Jones to repeat as the 2022 WNBA MVP. The Sun are 4-1 and welcomed back DeWanna Bonner and Courtney Williams this week. This only helps take heat off of JJ as she is scoring 15.2 PPG and snagging 8.4 RPG. The numbers may not be dominant but JJ is playing consistent and complimenting her teammates superbly. As she grows comfortable in the role she has been asked to play, her game will be back in MVP shape before you know it.
WATCHLIST
ELENA DELLE DONNE
Depending on how many games Elena Delle Donne plays determines her grade in the 2022 WNBA MVP power rankings. It is tough to justify MVP status if EDD continues to miss games on a regular basis. Of course it makes sense to rest her and keep EDD healthy long-term. When she has played, EDD is averaging 18.2 PPG, 6.6 RPG, and is shooting 47.7% from the field and 42.3% from three-point range.
CANDACE PARKER
Another player on the watchlist, Candace Parker scored a triple-double in Sunday’s game against the Mystics. She is the oldest player to score multiple triple-doubles and only the third in the league to do so. CP3 is scoring 14.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG and 4.8 APG. Pretty amazing numbers for someone in her 15th year in the WNBA. She may be an outside shot at the 2022 WNBA MVP but she is playing consistently and helps her team in more ways than can be counted.
ALYSSA THOMAS
The Connecticut Sun are stacked and it is with welcome arms that Alyssa Thomas has returned to the court. She is a force to be reckoned with. AT is fourth in the league in scoring at 19.0 PPG. In addition, she is 12th in the league in rebounds at 7.4 PPG. AT is in the right place at the right time on offense and defense. Currently, she is the glue that holds the Sun team together and the may be the X factor for its success. Very impressed with her grit, determination, and ballin’ game this season.
JEWELL LOYD
Last week, Jewell Loyd was top five in the 2022 WNBA MVP power rankings. This week Loyd is on the watchlist. She may still be in the 2022 WNBA MVP conversation, but for now time will determine that designation. Seattle is having a tough time finding its identity but Loyd is definitely a bright spot. She is averaging 17.3 PPG, 2.7 APG and she is shooting 36.8% from behind the arc. As the season progresses, notice the moves Loyd makes to add her name to the 2022 WNBA MVP conversation.
BREANNA STEWART
Of course Breanna Stewart deserves to be mentioned in the 2022 WNBA MVP power rankings. Although she has only played four games, Stewie is averaging 19.8 PPG, 7.0 RPG and is fourth in the league in steals at 2.3. As the season progresses Stewie will become a more dominant force for the Storm. Her value will rise as Seattle regroups and finds their winning ways again.
MOVING FORWARD
This may be one of the tightest WNBA MVP races ever. It is such an exciting time to be a WNBA fan. Stay tuned for more intriguing narratives that define the WNBA this season. Dial in some serious talent on display as the season progresses. Prepare to be amazed as the 2022 WNBA MVP race continues to unravel. Overall, fasten those seatbelts, the 2022 WNBA MVP race is about to get turbulent.
