Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier, who missed the first 10 weeks of the 2026 WNBA season following double ankle surgery, is probable for her return to the court in Wednesday’s game against the Seattle Storm. The Lynx currently hold the league’s best record at 21-6 entering the All-Star break.
Collier’s Return and the Lynx Championship Ambition
The Minnesota Lynx are set to reinforce their roster as they head into the second half of the 2026 season. According to ESPN, the team confirmed on Tuesday that Napheesa Collier is cleared to play following a lengthy recovery from surgeries on both ankles. Collier, a perennial MVP contender, has been sidelined since January.
Her return comes at a pivotal time for the organization. As reported by SI.com, the Lynx have remained at the top of the WNBA standings despite losing their star player to injury and navigating a roster overhaul that saw several key contributors depart in free agency. With Collier back in the lineup, the team aims to solidify its position for a deep postseason run.
“I think the goal we come in with every season is to win a championship, and I feel like we have the pieces to do that.”
Napheesa Collier, Minnesota Lynx forward
Integrating a New-Look Roster
While Collier is a familiar leader for the franchise, the on-court chemistry will require adjustment.
Collier acknowledged the necessity of finding a rhythm during this transition. There’s just players that I haven’t played with before,
she said during a recent media availability. So, I think just naturally there’s that learning curve, but that’s why I’m in practice right now, so we can try to work out all those kinks.
Managing the Physical Transition
Head coach Cheryl Reeve and the Lynx organization are focused on the reality that returning from a major injury involves more than just medical clearance. The conditioning and speed of professional basketball present immediate hurdles for an athlete who has not competed since October 2025.
Guard Courtney Williams emphasized the difference between controlled training and live competition. Obviously it’s different being in practice and then coming out and playing a real game — the adrenaline, the nervousness,
Williams explained. Yahoo Sports reported that while Collier participated in individual workouts and began full team practices on July 1, the intensity of a game scenario remains the final test.
“You do your rehab, and you get your body strong, but there’s nothing like in-game to get that rust off and to get that last hesitation or whatever it is out of your system.”
Napheesa Collier, Minnesota Lynx forward
Statistical Impact and Roster Depth
The return of a player who shot 40.3 percent from 3-point territory
and averaged 22.9 points per game
last season naturally changes the team’s dynamics. Reeve cautioned that the team’s statistical profile will shift as minutes are redistributed.
“There are going to be side effects. Ultimately, people are going to be affected minute-wise and maybe therefore production-wise. They are still going to be valuable, [but stats won’t] look as gaudy as when Phee was out.”
Cheryl Reeve, Minnesota Lynx head coach
Despite the looming adjustments, the Lynx enter the second half of the season with a clear objective. With Dorka Juhasz also nearing a return to the court, the team’s depth in the frontcourt is expected to increase significantly. The focus for the remainder of the summer will be on building chemistry, ensuring Collier regains her MVP-level form, and preparing for a playoff race that includes contenders like the Las Vegas Aces and the New York Liberty.
