Defense is raised a notch in the playoffs. The Sparks are well aware of their road problems dropping 10 of 17 road contests this season. LA coach Derek Fisher has said defense will be a key in this opening semifinal round matchup. 
The Sparks have been playing excellent defense holding their last four opponents to an average of 66.3 points. I'm expecting an intense defensive effort from them. 
Connecticut is the No. 1 defensive team in defending against 3-pointers. The Sun, though, could be rusty on offense having last played nine days ago.