Key Moments
Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier, an MVP candidate, will be sidelined for at least two weeks due to a right ankle sprain. The team announced the injury on Monday, stating Collier "will be re-evaluated in the coming weeks."
Collier, 27, has been a driving force for the Lynx this season, averaging 18.7 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. Her absence is a significant blow as the Lynx push for a playoff spot in the crowded WNBA Western Conference.
Player Impact
The Lynx will have to find a way to fill the void left by Collier's absence. Second-year forward Aerial Powers and veteran guard Kayla McBride will likely see increased roles and responsibilities in the offense.
"Napheesa is the engine that makes us go," Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve said. "We'll need everyone to step up while she recovers, but we're confident in our depth to weather this setback."
The timing of the injury is particularly tough, as the Lynx are jockeying for position in a tight playoff race. They currently sit in sixth place in the West, just one game behind the fourth-place Aces.
TL;DR
- Lynx star Napheesa Collier sidelined 2+ weeks with ankle sprain
- Collier, an MVP candidate, averaging 18.7 pts, 7.5 reb, 4.2 ast
- Lynx will lean on Aerial Powers, Kayla McBride to fill Collier's void
- Minnesota fighting for playoff spot in crowded WNBA West