The Minnesota Lynx was a quieter franchise in the free agency as the side failed to attract big stars despite finishing at the top of the 2025 standings. A long-standing Injury to Napheesa Collier complicated matters for the side, which looked to build around its megastar but will have to start the campaign without her.
Amid such a situation, the player remains on the priority list and signs a supermax contract. The franchise player will join the team midway through the season, though there is no definite schedule for her return yet.
Napheesa Collier Agrees To One-Year Super Max Contract With Minnesota Lynx
Kelsey Mitchell became the first player to sign a super max contract, while A’ja Wilson set a record with a massive supermax contract with the Las Vegas Aces. Many expected a similar treatment to the MVP Runners-up, but the player signed only a one-year deal.
According to a report from Alexa Philippou, the former UConn star is back with the Lynx but will be an unrestricted free agent and not core-able in 2027.
Napheesa Collier is back with the Lynx — but will be an unrestricted free agent (and not core-able) in 2027 https://t.co/4UaKFlDL43
— Alexa Philippou (@alexaphilippou) April 17, 2026
Praising the star, coach Reeves said, “Phee has been such an integral part of the Lynx since she was drafted in 2019. Coming off a historic 50/40/90 season and guiding the Lynx to the most wins in franchise history, Phee is hungry to position the Lynx for a championship run in 2026.”
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While another potential supermax player, Kelsey Plum, took a pay cut to help the Sparks build a contender roster, Collier’s contract certainly shows the franchise’s trust in her ability and is positive about her return.
It is interesting to note that the Lynx opted for a shorter contract, which is also a smart move by the front office.
Minnesota Lynx Chooses Flexibility With One-Year Contract To Napheesa Collier
While the reigning MVP is ‘untouchable’ at the Aces, a similar situation applies for the 30-year-old Lynx forward. The player carried the side to the 2024 finals and is Cheryl Reeves’s most dependable asset.
With the contract, the franchise not only retains her as the face of the team but also signals its intent to keep building around the megastar.
PHEE IS BACK. 👑 pic.twitter.com/8behCZ2upe
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) April 17, 2026
Yet instead of tying her to a longer, more lucrative contract, the franchise chose a shorter, max contract, allowing it to make adjustments in the coming season. Adding Olivia Miles, the franchise already provided a star playmaker on the roster, and fans will look for Phee’s return to see how the combo would work in the league.