The Minnesota Lynx will face the Los Angeles Sparks on Saturday night in Minneapolis as they aim to maintain momentum before competing in the Commissioner’s Cup in less than two weeks. The Lynx want to avoid distractions and remain focused on their regular-season challenges, including the uncertain Napheesa Collier status before Lynx Sparks game, as she recently left the court with a back injury.
Current Season Matchups Favor Minnesota
Saturday’s contest marks the third meeting this season between Minnesota (11-1) and Los Angeles (4-9), with the Lynx having secured victories in both prior games. Their first win was an 89-75 triumph on the road on May 18, followed by a dominant 101-78 result at home last weekend. The Lynx hope to continue this success despite Collier’s health concerns.
Key Players Return and Remain Questionable
The Sparks expect Kelsey Plum to return after missing their last game due to a leg injury. Plum has led the team all season, averaging 20.9 points and 5.6 assists per game, making her return important for Los Angeles’ offense. Meanwhile, Minnesota officials remain hopeful that Napheesa Collier, who leads the Lynx with 24.4 points and 8.5 rebounds per game, will be available. Collier left the Lynx’s recent game after 19 minutes due to a back issue but remains a crucial contributor.
Lynx’s Depth Provides Confidence Amid Injuries
Thanks to a deep roster, Minnesota has managed to win 11 of its first 12 games. This depth was evident in their recent win over the Las Vegas Aces, where Diamond Miller came off the bench to add 12 points in just 14 minutes. Miller, who has overcome injuries in the past season, expressed strong emotions after her performance.
This moment means a lot to me,
Miller shared.
Her teammates recognize her resilience and energy as key factors for the Lynx moving forward.
She has been through a lot,
said teammate Natisha Hiedeman.
But her bringing her energy, being a good teammate despite all the stuff she’s been through? She just shows up, every day, with a smile on her face. I don’t know how she does that.
Sparks Struggle with Injuries but Remain Optimistic
Los Angeles has faced a difficult stretch, losing six of their last eight games, compounded by injuries to several key players. Coach Lynne Roberts maintains faith in the team’s overall potential despite the setbacks.
I still believe strongly in this group, and we’re not even close to full strength,
Roberts said.
We have Kelsey Plum, Odyssey Sims, Julie Allemand, Rae Burrell and Cameron Brink all out. And when we’re going into the season, we’re thinking, Plum, Sims, Allemand, Burrell and Brink are all going to be huge parts. So we cannot lose perspective.
Significance of this Matchup and What Lies Ahead
This game between the Lynx and Sparks serves as a critical test for both teams, as Minnesota tries to extend its winning streak and the Sparks seek to regain footing after injury challenges. For the Lynx, the availability of Napheesa Collier will be a decisive factor in their ability to secure another win before their appearance in the Commissioner’s Cup. The outcome could influence team confidence and momentum heading into the tournament, underscoring the importance of roster health and depth in this competitive phase of the season.