The Minnesota Lynx and New York Liberty will square off Tuesday night in what feels like a 2024 WNBA Finals rematch with serious implications. The Liberty has dropped back-to-back games against Minnesota while struggling without Breanna Stewart in their lineup.
Meanwhile, the Lynx are dealing with their own star player concerns as Napheesa Collier remains sidelined with ankle issues. Tuesday’s game could shift momentum for both teams as they push toward the playoffs.
Will Napheesa Collier Suit Up Against the Liberty on Tuesday?
The uncertainty surrounding Collier’s status has Minnesota fans on edge. Although she was initially listed as “doubtful” on the team’s injury report, according to ESPN’s injury tracker, She appears to be out for the August 19 matchup against New York.
The injury occurred during Minnesota’s dominant 111-58 victory over the Las Vegas Aces. Collier had been playing well that night, putting up 18 points, three rebounds, and five assists before checking out of the game in visible pain with a right ankle sprain.
Napheesa Collier walked off the court with assistance after suffering an apparent foot injury. pic.twitter.com/S3ua6d0RUf
— ESPN (@espn) August 2, 2025
Since that August 2 game, the leading MVP candidate has missed four consecutive games. However, the Lynx have shown remarkable resilience in her absence, winning every game without their star forward. Their most recent victory came Friday night against the Liberty, an 86-80 win that showcased the team’s depth.
Minnesota continues to build on what’s shaping up as another historic season. Collier and her teammates hold the league’s best record at 28-5 with just 11 games remaining in the regular season. The Lynx are positioned perfectly to finish with the top record in the WNBA.
Collier’s impact on this success cannot be overstated. She has missed only seven games this season while averaging 23.5 points per game, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. Her efficiency numbers have also been outstanding, shooting 53.7% from the floor and 36.8% from the three-point range.
Can Collier Still Win the MVP Award This Year?
While Collier recovers on the sideline, the WNBA MVP race has become increasingly competitive. About a month ago, she was the clear frontrunner for the award. Her production, court vision, basketball IQ, and leadership were the driving forces behind her standing above every other player in the league.
Even when her teammates struggled at times, Collier consistently elevated her game and carried the Lynx.
However, that gap has been closing steadily since she hasn’t played against the Aces since August 2. During that same stretch, the Aces have caught fire with seven straight victories, suddenly looking like legitimate championship contenders again. Much of that momentum stems from A’ja Wilson’s incredible play, as she has scored at least 27 points during a five-game winning streak.
Many analysts believe that if Collier wants to reclaim her position atop the MVP standings, she needs to return to the court soon. With the regular season winding down, every game becomes more crucial for individual awards and team positioning heading into the playoffs.
