Despite an unexpected loss that their coach described as “embarrassing,” the Minnesota Lynx have successfully secured the top seed in the upcoming WNBA playoffs. This achievement comes at a critical juncture, particularly with their star rookie player currently dealing with a calf injury, raising questions about her availability for the postseason.
Lynx Clinch Top Seed Despite Setback, Rookie's Status Uncertain
In a surprising turn of events on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, the Minnesota Lynx experienced a significant defeat at the hands of the Indiana Fever, with a final score of 96-77 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. This particular game was initially anticipated to confirm their number one playoff seeding. However, the unexpected outcome of the Portland Fire's 90-82 overtime victory against the Golden State Valkyries later that evening at the Moda Center ultimately secured the top spot for the Lynx, regardless of their own performance.
This outcome means the Lynx can now approach their final regular-season game on Thursday without the pressure of playoff implications. Nevertheless, a more pressing concern has emerged regarding the condition of Olivia Miles. Miles, a promising rookie, was a late withdrawal from Tuesday's match due to a left calf injury. Although she had been initially listed as questionable, she indicated to ESPN that her absence was a precautionary measure.
The Lynx struggled significantly during the initial half in Indianapolis, experiencing their largest deficit of the season. Before this game, the team had not trailed by more than 20 points in any match throughout the year. The Fever, however, briefly established a 29-point lead before maintaining a 23-point advantage heading into halftime. The Lynx mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, initiating with an 11-0 run that narrowed the gap to 12 points. Sophie Cunningham then broke the Fever's scoring drought with a crucial corner three-pointer. Ultimately, the Lynx outscored the Fever 30-14 in the third quarter, reducing the deficit to a mere seven points.
Despite their valiant efforts, the comeback ultimately fell short. The Fever managed to restrict Minnesota to just 13 points in the final quarter, as the Lynx opted to rest many of their key players for the majority of the second half, leading to a 19-point victory for Indiana. Caitlin Clark was a pivotal player for the Fever, contributing 27 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds.
Following the game, Napheesa Collier openly expressed her disappointment, stating, “It’s embarrassing. We should be disappointed and embarrassed about the product that we put on the floor tonight. Not proud of what we did,” a sentiment reported by ESPN’s Kareem Copeland.
With a current record of 32-11, the Lynx are set to face the Fever once more on Thursday to conclude their regular season. However, Miles’ participation in this final game remains uncertain. She mentioned her intention to attempt practice on Wednesday before a decision is made regarding her status for the season finale.
Miles has consistently been considered a leading contender for Rookie of the Year throughout the season. She has maintained an average of 19.8 points per game this year, notably scoring 21 points in the team's 101-89 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Sunday. This performance brought her season total to 790 points, surpassing Caitlin Clark's rookie scoring record. Clark had previously broken Hall of Famer Seimone Augustus’ record of 769 points, which she achieved during her rookie campaign in 2024.
Despite the recent setback, the Lynx are in an excellent position as they head into the playoffs. Under the guidance of long-serving head coach Cheryl Reeve, who took the helm in 2010, the team has participated in the postseason in all but two seasons and has claimed four championships. Their most recent title was in 2017, although they also reached the WNBA Finals in 2024. However, any aspirations for a deep playoff run this autumn will be significantly more challenging if Miles faces an extended period on the sidelines, a reality underscored by Tuesday night's performance in Indiana.
The recent game, though resulting in a loss, provided a stark reminder of the Lynx's strengths and vulnerabilities. It underscored the team's ability to fight back from significant deficits, showcasing their tenacity and depth. However, it also highlighted the critical role of key players like Olivia Miles. Her potential absence raises strategic questions for Coach Reeve and the team as they navigate the intensity of playoff competition. This situation emphasizes the fine line between regular season performance and postseason success, where every player's health and contribution become paramount. The Lynx's journey into the playoffs will undoubtedly be a compelling narrative, marked by both their collective spirit and the individual challenges they must overcome.
