Napheesa Collier’s injury was already a major blow to the Minnesota Lynx, but the latest update has turned concern into alarm. While medical reports confirm that the star forward avoided a more serious injury, they also reveal she’ll face a significant absence during a critical stretch of the season.
Collier-widely considered the leading MVP candidate-was injured during Saturday’s game against the Las Vegas Aces. The incident occurred late in the third quarter when she fell and was unable to get up without help.
After being stabilized on the court, she was taken to the locker room and did not return. Although the Lynx went on to crush the Aces 111-58, the post-game update sent shockwaves through head coach Cheryl Reeve’s camp.
How many games will Collier miss?
Team doctors confirmed that Collier suffered a sprained right ankle. While she avoided a major injury, ESPN insider Kendra Andrews reports that she could be sidelined for at least two weeks, starting Monday, August 7.
That timeline would keep her out of at least four key matchups, including Tuesday’s game against the Seattle Storm, Friday’s clash with the Washington Mystics, and at least two of the three-game series against the New York Liberty next week.
Her absence also casts doubt on her MVP chances. Phee is currently averaging 23.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 1.8 steals per game-numbers that have made her the frontrunner for the league’s top honor.
What this means for the Lynx
The Lynx lead the WNBA standings with a 24-5 record. With only 15 games left in the regular season, every win matters in their fight to stay ahead of the New York Liberty (18-10) and the Atlanta Dream (18-11), their closest competitors.
Collier’s absence could threaten that lead. However, rushing her back too soon could worsen the injury ahead of the playoffs. The front office may ultimately prioritize long-term health over short-term wins, giving their star the time she needs to fully recover for the final stretch.
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