1. Health

In the compressed WNBA season, this might be the most important thing. During last year's 28-6 season, all five Lynx starters played in 29 or more games; the five combined to miss only seven games. Lindsay Whalen, Seimone Augustus and Maya Moore all passed on playing overseas this winter, and Rebekkah Brunson played only a partial schedule. The veterans should be fresh.

2. A better bench

Forward Plenette Pierson is the main addition to a bench that includes up-and-comer Natasha Howard and veteran guards Renee Montgomery and Jia Perkins. Coach Cheryl Reeve wants both guards to shoot better, and Reeve wants Howard to broaden her game and lengthen her range. Pierson will be a key; Reeve expects her to be effective in the pick-and-roll.

3. Time for more

Center Sylvia Fowles, pictured, has already won a WNBA Finals MVP. She is effective at both ends of the court. And Reeve wants more. "Next for Syl will be there is no scheme that you can throw at her that she's not going to dominate," Reeve said. "That will be vital for our ability to succeed."

Kent Youngblood