​One of the WNBA’s wealthiest teams in terms of talent is about to get a significant upgrade as the 15-6 Minnesota Lynx anticipate the return of Napheesa Collier. Collier has spent months rehabbing after surgeries on both ankles—right in January and left in March—and the team is hopeful that she will soon rejoin the court. Below, we outline when Phee is expected to be back in Lynx blue and ready to contribute on a regular basis.
Collier’s return to practice marked a meaningful milestone. She rejoined Lynx practice on July 1 and participated as a full member of the session. “Feels good to be back,” Collier said. “I’m progressing really well. Obviously, it’s hard to be out and not with the team. I’m trying to be a player coach out there for them as best I can, but it definitely feels better to be on the court.” Her optimism aligns with the team’s plan, which appears to involve a measured ramp-up to full game readiness.
Given the typical timeline for players returning from extended absences, Collier will likely need a one-to-two week period of ramping up before taking the floor in a regular-season game. The Lynx’ upcoming schedule around her expected return provides a framework for when she might debut in 2026. Notable dates include a home matchup against the New York Liberty on Saturday, July 11, followed by a string of home games and a trip to play the Seattle Storm on Monday, July 20. Specifically, the Lynx have a multi-game home stand beginning after their July 8 game at the Connecticut Sun, with several opportunities at home in mid-July that could serve as an ideal stage for Collier’s 2026 season debut.
Collier’s injuries have a short collision course with the regular season’s arc. Her left ankle injury occurred on September 26, 2025, when she collided with Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury during a controversial play. In addition, her right ankle issues trace back to late in the 2025 WNBA regular season, which caused her to miss seven games. This history of ankle injuries underscores the careful timeline teams often adopt for star players returning from lengthy injuries, with home games frequently favored to help players ease back into the rhythm of competition.
From a broader perspective, Collier’s return comes at a pivotal moment for the Lynx. Collier is a five-time WNBA All-Star, consistently ranking among the league’s elite players, and her presence has a meaningful impact on both offensive efficiency and floor leadership. While many specifics of her on-court role will be determined by coaching decisions and fitness progress, her skill set—scoring versatility, rebounding ability, and defensive impact—should bolster the Lynx as they push toward a deep postseason run. In addition to Collier, Minnesota also welcomes back Dorka Juhász, who earned recognition as a EuroLeague MVP before being sidelined by injury. The prospect of Collier and Juhász contributing in tandem adds another layer of star power to a roster already stocked with talent.
In terms of the championship picture, the Lynx are positioned as one of the league’s most formidable contenders. They currently share the best record in the WNBA with the Las Vegas Aces at 15-6, and they hold a strong title favorite status in the eyes of many observers. Fanatics Sportsbook has pegged Minnesota as a leading contender, reflecting confidence in their depth, coaching, and high-caliber players as they navigate the remainder of the season with the potential for another deep playoff run.
As Collier eases back into game action, fans can anticipate a careful, phased return designed to optimize her health and performance. The plan appears to emphasize gradual ramp-up time, a return to the Lynx’s tempo and system, and a methodical reintegration into the rotation. The combination of Collier’s talent, Juhász’s return from injury, and a coherent team strategy positions Minnesota to maximize its championship aspirations in 2026. If all goes well, Collier could make her season debut during the Lynx’s mid-July stretch, giving the team a tangible boost as they pursue another deep postseason run and a potential title in a competitive league.