Rebecca Allen questionable to play in Mercury’s home opener vs. Dream

After wrapping up practice on Thursday afternoon, the Phoenix Mercury will be near full strength, but one player’s status is up in the air while another will be inactive when they face the Atlanta Dream on Saturday.

Mercury Game Status

QUESTIONABLE – G/F Rebecca Allen (Back)
OUT – C Brittney Griner (Left Foot – Toe)

About two weeks ago, Allen missed the Mercury’s first preseason game against the Seattle Storm with a hip injury. She would play in the second preseason game versus the Los Angeles Sparks and the regular season opener up against the Las Vegas Aces.

In her Mercury debut on Tuesday, the Australian forward scored 14 points, and had seven rebounds, two steals and two assists in the 89-80 loss to the Aces on Tuesday. Look for Kiki Herbert Harrigan or Sophie Cunningham to enter the starting lineup if Allen’s injury keeps her out.

As for Griner, a possible return date from her toe fracture has yet to be determined. She was seen in a walking boot at Thursday’s practice, so her inactive game status was looming before the announcement. Natasha Mack is expected to start at center during Griner’s absence, with Liz Dixon backing her up.

At the Mercury’s home opener inside Footprint Center, they will clash against Atlanta at 7 p.m. PT.