Lynx answering critics with hot start after road win at Sky

Overall, four Lynx starters finished in double figures, including rookie guard Olivia Miles (14 points), who added nine rebounds and five assists. Veteran guards Courtney Williams (17 points) and Kayla McBride (13 points) also came up big in the double-digit win, erasing doubt about the team's ability to not only withstand Collier's absence but also several key offseason departures.

During the preseason, ESPN ranked Minnesota, which went a league-best 34-10 in 2025, No. 8, citing Collier's health after undergoing offseason left ankle surgery and rebounding concerns following the signing of former role players Jessica Shepard and Alanna Smith to lucrative free-agent contracts with the Dallas Wings.

Last month, ESPN WNBA insider Alexa Philippou shared that the team expects Collier to resume on-court activities in early June, which could make a return to the court by the end of next month feasible. Rebounding has also not been as big an issue as experts feared, with the team entering Saturday fourth in total rebound rate (51.9 percent). Minnesota controlled the glass against Chicago, gathering two-thirds of all rebounds and finishing with a 54-28 advantage.

The Lynx, who also lost starting forward Bridget Carleton to the Portland Fire in the expansion draft, have withstood the turnover with newcomers Howard and Miles playing key roles. And while the two will have to adapt to playing smaller roles upon Collier's return, their strong play also allows head coach Cheryl Reeve to ease her star forward back into the rotation, keeping Collier fresh for a playoff run.

Through six games, Howard is averaging 17 points per game on 66.7 percent shooting. Miles, meanwhile, has made the leap to the pros from college appear effortless, with the former Notre Dame and TCU star averaging 15 points, 5.5 assists and five rebounds per game after Saturday.

The Lynx have checked every box early this season, giving them renewed hope after entering the year surrounded by uncertainty. By the time Collier returns, they could be in a position to make serious noise.