Quick Read
- Napheesa Collier suffered an ankle injury during Saturday’s game against the Las Vegas Aces.
- Despite the injury, the Minnesota Lynx secured a 111-58 victory, led by Kayla McBride’s historic 24-point performance.
- Collier’s MVP campaign is now in question, with Alyssa Thomas potentially emerging as a new frontrunner.
- Further tests will determine the severity of Collier’s injury, leaving the Lynx in a precarious position.
The Minnesota Lynx, a dominant force in the WNBA this season, faced a significant setback on Saturday when their star player, Napheesa Collier, suffered an ankle injury during a game against the Las Vegas Aces. Despite the injury, the Lynx managed to secure an overwhelming 111-58 victory, thanks to Kayla McBride’s historic shooting performance. Collier’s injury, however, casts a shadow over the team’s otherwise stellar season, as fans and analysts speculate on its potential impact.
Napheesa Collier’s Injury and Impact
On Saturday, August 2, Napheesa Collier left the game late in the third quarter after injuring her ankle while vying for an offensive rebound. In her 26 minutes on the court, Collier demonstrated why she is the frontrunner for the WNBA MVP award, contributing 18 points, five assists, and three rebounds while shooting an impressive 6-for-11 from the field. According to Sportskeeda, further tests are pending to determine the severity of her injury, leaving the Lynx and their fans in suspense.
Collier has been the cornerstone of the Lynx’s success this season, averaging a league-high 23.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. Her performance has been instrumental in positioning the team at the top of the WNBA standings, with a commanding six-game lead over the second-place New York Liberty. The injury raises critical questions about the Lynx’s ability to maintain their dominance in her absence and whether her MVP campaign might be derailed.
Kayla McBride’s Historic Night
While Collier’s injury was a moment of concern, Kayla McBride provided a reason to celebrate with a performance for the ages. McBride scored 24 points, dished out five assists, and grabbed two rebounds, shooting an astounding 8-for-10 from beyond the arc. According to Sportskeeda, she fell just one three-pointer short of tying the WNBA record for most three-pointers made in a single game. Her efforts not only energized her team but also highlighted the depth of talent on the Lynx roster.
Collier herself acknowledged McBride’s exceptional game, taking to Instagram to cheer her teammate on with a simple yet heartfelt “Toughhhh.” McBride’s shooting spree was crucial in securing the Lynx’s dominant victory over the Aces, solidifying their position as championship favorites this season.
The Road Ahead for the Lynx
The Lynx’s upcoming schedule includes a game against the Seattle Storm on Tuesday at Climate Pledge Arena. The team will need to adapt quickly, especially if Collier is sidelined for an extended period. The Lynx’s depth will be tested, with players like McBride and other key contributors needing to step up in Collier’s absence.
Collier’s injury comes at a pivotal moment in the WNBA season, with nearly 20 games remaining. Should she miss significant time, the MVP race could take a dramatic turn. Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas, currently averaging 16.2 points, 9.0 assists, and 8.4 rebounds per game, could emerge as the new favorite for the award. As The Playoffs reports, Thomas has been instrumental in leading the Mercury to the fourth spot in the standings, trailing the Lynx by seven games.
Collier’s MVP Campaign in Jeopardy?
Before her injury, Collier was widely regarded as the clear frontrunner for the MVP award. Her consistent performances have been unmatched, and her leadership on and off the court has been a defining factor for the Lynx. However, the WNBA is a league where individual accolades are closely tied to team success. If Collier is unable to return soon, it could significantly impact her chances of clinching the MVP title, despite her stellar statistics.
Meanwhile, the Lynx will need to find ways to maintain their momentum without their star player. The team’s ability to adapt and rally around McBride and other key players will be critical in ensuring that their championship aspirations remain intact.
As the Lynx prepare for their next challenge, all eyes are on Napheesa Collier’s recovery. Her return could be the key to sustaining the team’s dominance and securing her place in WNBA history as an MVP.