Unmatched: Predictions and Insights for the Laces vs. Lunar Owls Showdown on Monday, January 12, 2026
Get ready for an intense clash in the Unrivaled series! Meghan Townsley is here to break down her forecast and selection for the thrilling encounter between the Laces and the Lunar Owls on Monday.
As the second season continues to unfold, basketball fans can look forward to another exhilarating three-on-three matchup that showcases top-tier talent. The Laces are stepping onto the court as 7.5-point favorites away from home, according to DraftKings Sportsbook, with the over/under set at 136.5 points. Let’s dive deeper into my analysis and predictions for this star-studded event.
Prediction for Laces vs. Lunar Owls
The Laces head into this game looking to recover from a narrow defeat against the Mist, where they lost 83–81 despite a remarkable performance by Brittney Sykes, who scored 29 points. Other key players like Alyssa Thomas, Jackie Young, and Maddy Siegrist contributed with over 12 points each, but ultimately, it was Breanna Stewart's free throws that sealed their fate. Now, they’re eager to bounce back against a Lunar Owls team that has been significantly impacted by injuries, most notably the absence of WNBA star and Unrivaled co-founder Napheesa Collier.
Brittney Sykes is truly a player to watch. During just 15.6 minutes on the floor, the Seattle Storm veteran made 5 out of 7 attempts from beyond the three-point line – a compelling display, especially considering she previously shot 30.4% from deep last WNBA season. While such efficiency may not be sustainable long-term, her assertive scoring style has established her as the offensive leader for the Laces early in the season. Meanwhile, Alyssa Thomas has been putting in the hard work inside, grabbing nine rebounds in her last game, while both Thomas and Jackie Young have been crucial in orchestrating the offense. Young stood out with eight assists, highlighting the balanced nature of the Laces’ roster when all players are in sync.
On the flip side, the Lunar Owls are grappling with a slew of injuries right from the start. In addition to Collier’s absence, Skylar Diggins is also out due to a leg and ankle issue, leaving the Owls vulnerable on both offense and defense. Nevertheless, Marina Mabrey has risen to the occasion, scoring 23 points in her season debut and then exploding for 32 points against the Phantom last Saturday. Aaliyah Edwards has also been making her presence felt on the boards, averaging 11.5 rebounds and 18 points in her first two games.
However, defense has proven to be the Owls’ biggest hurdle so far. They allowed a staggering 94 points to the Phantom and currently hold the league's worst point differential at -52. This statistic raises concerns in a fast-paced three-on-three setup, where getting stops is crucial. Unless there’s significant improvement on the defensive end, the Owls may find themselves trailing against a Laces team eager to secure a win.
Betting Pick for Laces vs. Lunar Owls
If the Lunar Owls were at full strength, they would pose a legitimate challenge in this league. However, given their current situation, backing them seems risky. With Brittney Sykes exhibiting confidence in her shooting, along with Alyssa Thomas and Jackie Young providing stability to a well-rounded core, the Laces seem to possess a distinct advantage. Should the Owls continue to struggle defensively, the Laces will likely seize the opportunity to secure a victory on Monday night.
Best Bet: Laces -7.5 (-115) (Check it out at DraftKings Sportsbook)
Are you leaning towards the Laces or do you think the Owls could pull off an upset despite their challenges? Share your thoughts in the comments!
