Collier Returns to Lynx
Five-Time All-Star Napheesa Collier Eyes Return to Thriving Minnesota Lynx Lineup
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Key Points
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Collier underwent offseason surgery on both ankles, with the right ankle operated on New Year’s Day and the left ankle in March, and she returned to team practice on July 1 as she works back toward a potential debut.
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If Collier cannot play in the upcoming game, her next opportunity to debut would be July 28 at home against Toronto.
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Minnesota has thrived without Collier, entering the break at 21-6 with the league’s top net rating (plus-10.2) and an 11-2 road record, underscoring the depth around Miles and McBride.
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Olivia Miles delivered a 32-point, eight-rebound, eight-assist performance in a win over Seattle, part of season-long strong production that has fueled Minnesota’s success without Collier.
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Kayla McBride was named WNBA Player of the Week after averaging 27 points per game over her last three outings for Minnesota.
Napheesa Collier is listed as probable to make her 2026 season debut Wednesday when the Minnesota Lynx face the Seattle Storm — their final game before the All-Star break. Yahoo Sports reported it will be her first action since injuring her left ankle in the playoffs last September, following offseason surgeries on both ankles.
The five-time All-Star had her right ankle operated on New Year's Day and her left ankle in March. She returned to team practice on July 1. If she cannot go Wednesday, her next shot at a debut would be July 28 at home against Toronto, according to TSN.
Lynx Have Dominated All Season Without Their Star
Minnesota has not needed Collier to win. The Lynx enter the break at 21-6, the best record in the WNBA. Yahoo Sports noted the team holds the league's top net rating at plus-10.2 and an impressive 11-2 road record. They have built one of the most balanced rosters in the league.
The Lynx recently won six straight games without Collier. That kind of run without a five-time All-Star speaks to the depth Minnesota has built this season around a standout rookie and a red-hot veteran.
Olivia Miles and Kayla McBride Have Carried the Load
Rookie Olivia Miles has been one of the best stories in the WNBA this season. She is averaging 19.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. Her biggest moment came in a recent win over Seattle, when she dropped 32 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, according to Head Topics.
Veteran Kayla McBride has been just as hot. She averaged 27 points per game over her last three games and earned WNBA Player of the Week honors, TSN reported. Together, Miles and McBride have given Minnesota a two-headed attack that few teams can match.
Collier's Return Could Fix Lynx Defensive Lapses
Minnesota has thrived on offense, but the team has had some defensive problems this season. Collier is a former Defensive Player of the Year. Her presence alone changes how opponents attack the paint. Hartford Courant noted her return addresses one of the few weak spots on an otherwise strong team.
Collier's return would give head coach Cheryl Reeve a much more complete lineup heading into the stretch run. Adding an elite two-way forward to a 21-6 team makes Minnesota an even bigger threat for a championship.
What Comes Next for Collier and the Lynx Title Push
Collier's comeback will be managed carefully. She has not played in a real game since September 2025. Coaches will likely limit her minutes early. But even a limited Collier gives Minnesota options no other team has. UK Yahoo Sports called this her first game back after surgery on both ankles.
The Lynx are already the team to beat in the WNBA. If Collier rounds back into form before the playoffs, Minnesota could be unstoppable. The All-Star break comes at the perfect time — giving her a few extra days to rest and prepare for what could be a deep title run.
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