A method in a first station comprises monitoring a network allocation vector in a wireless network; using the network allocation vector to predict an access pattern, e.g., periodic access for a given duration, by a second station in the wireless network; and performing a response based on the predicted access pattern. The response may include modifying a MAC layer parameter, e.g., TXOP or a prediction backoff value, and/or a physical layer parameter, in the first station based on the predicted access pattern. The response may include informing a neighboring network of the predicted access pattern, causing the first station to enter a power-saving mode during times based on the predicted access pattern of the second station, or determining whether to connect the first station into the wireless network. The first station and/or second station may include a client station or an access point.