The Minnesota Lynx have continued their strong performance in the 2025 WNBA season, holding the position as the league’s top seed heading into their upcoming game against the Indiana Fever. However, they will be without star forward Napheesa Collier, who remains sidelined due to a right ankle sprain sustained earlier in August.
Known for their stability and cohesion, the Lynx returned the entire starting lineup from their 2024 WNBA Finals squad, giving them consistency that many teams struggle to match. This advantage has helped them maintain a competitive edge as they seek a deep playoff run.
Defensive Strength and Team Depth Fuel Lynx Success
Defense has been the lynchpin of Minnesota’s approach this season, as they lead the league in defensive rating and blocks, consistently holding opponents to under 40 percent shooting. This defensive intensity has been credited by head coach Cheryl Reeve as a key factor in both their defense and offense.
The Lynx’s offense is balanced rather than reliant on any single player, despite Collier’s MVP-level production. Minnesota ranks second in offensive rating and boasts one of the highest points per game averages, supported by their league-best assist percentage and assist-to-turnover ratio. These facets highlight the team‘s focus on fluid ball movement and efficient shot creation.
Bench players Natisha Hiedeman and Jessica Shepard have been vital contributors, helping maintain the team’s momentum even when playing without Collier.
Details on Napheesa Collier’s Injury and Current Status
Collier suffered a right ankle sprain on August 2 during a late stretch of a game against the Las Vegas Aces. Despite questions about her presence on the court with a large lead, it has become clear her injury is significant enough to keep her out of action. While there was anticipation that she might return for the contest against the Indiana Fever, her ankle did not allow it.
Her absence has been felt, as the Lynx have dropped two consecutive games for the first time this season. Collier’s production remains impressive, with averages of 23.5 points, 7.5 rebounds per game, and a remarkable 54 percent shooting from the field.
Napheesa Collier (ankle) remains out for tonight’s Minnesota #Lynx game in Indiana. Normal Collier-less starting lineup for Minnesota, which is looking to end a two-game skid:- Courtney Williams- Kayla McBride- Bridget Carleton- Alanna Smith- Jessica Shepard
—Mitchell Hansen, Sports Journalist
This update came ahead of the Lynx’s game against the Fever, underscoring the team’s ongoing need to adapt without their MVP candidate.
Team’s Response and Outlook Moving Forward
Despite Collier’s absence, Minnesota continues to rely on strong individual performances and collective team effort. Courtney Williams has stepped up as a key leader, helping secure victories including a critical 86-80 win over the New York Liberty—against whom the Lynx hold a perfect 3-0 record this season, two wins achieved without Collier.
And that’s who Courtney Williams was today against the NY Liberty. A whole problem as she led the Lynx to a 86-80 win. Minnesota is 3-0 against the NY Liberty this season, 2 of those wins without MVP candidate Napheesa Collier pic.twitter.com/yHSe7JiTw7
—Lee Harvey, Analyst
With strong competitors like A’ja Wilson and Alyssa Thomas also vying for MVP honors, the Lynx will need to lean on their depth and strategies shaped by Reeve’s coaching philosophy to maintain their standing. The challenge ahead will be to sustain their defensive intensity and offensive efficiency while managing without their leading scorer.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates on Collier’s recovery and the overall team adaptation as the Lynx aim to end their recent losing streak and advance toward another postseason opportunity.