Lynx proving doubters wrong without Napheesa Collier in the lineup

Many expected the Minnesota Lynx to take a step backward when Napheesa Collier was ruled out to begin the 2026 season. Instead, they've become one of the WNBA's biggest surprises.

A recent ESPN feature explored how Minnesota has managed to thrive despite missing one of the league's premier players, and the answer goes far beyond any single replacement.

Minnesota lost more than just Collier

The challenge facing the Lynx wasn't limited to injury. Minnesota also watched several important contributors leave during free agency and expansion-related roster moves. The roster entering training camp looked significantly different from the group that competed last season.

For many teams, that type of turnover would lead to a rebuilding year. Not in Minnesota.

MORE: Olivia Miles is making WNBA history look possible with stunning rookie start

Team-first mentality has fueled the turnaround

Players repeatedly pointed to the team's unselfish style as a major reason for its success.

Rookie sensation Olivia Miles described the group as having an "everybody eats" mentality, while veterans emphasized accountability and trust. That culture has translated into one of the league's best offenses and defenses through the opening month.

Minnesota moves the ball, shares responsibilities and relies on collective effort rather than a single star carrying the load.

The scary part for the rest of the WNBA

Collier is still expected to return. That's what makes Minnesota's strong start particularly notable.

The Lynx have already established themselves as a contender without their franchise player. When Collier eventually rejoins the lineup, she will be joining a team that has already developed confidence and momentum. As teammate Courtney Williams told ESPN, the experience has forced everyone else to elevate their game.

If that's true, the rest of the league may soon have an even bigger problem on its hands.

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