Napheesa Collier’s 2026 season was a study in contrast. After ankle surgery sidelined her for much of the year, she returned to average 16.8 points and 6.9 rebounds across 16 games, the lowest since 2022 for the two-time MVP runner-up. Meanwhile, Minnesota’s spotlight shifted firmly to Olivia Miles, who emerged as the franchise’s leading guard and offensive catalyst. “She’s so quick, she can get by anyone,” Collier said of Miles in August. Minnesota’s future plans now revolve around Miles, leaving Collier’s role uncertain.
If Collier chooses to leave Minnesota, several teams could pursue the former Defensive Player of the Year. The Indiana Fever might be among them, especially if Kelsey Mitchell does not return. Indiana could look to build around Aliyah Boston and Caitlin Clark by adding a forward with Collier’s experience.
Mitchell’s 2026 campaign was career-best, with averages of 24.7 points, shooting 50.9 percent from the field and 45 percent from beyond the arc. Clark has publicly expressed a desire for Mitchell’s return, but Mitchell’s own comments suggest she may be weighing her options. “I have to be selfish. I think that’s where I am in my career about what I probably need and what’s probably best for me,” she said during her exit interview. Mitchell’s departure would attract significant attention across the league.
The Golden State Valkyries, fresh off their first championship, could be a natural fit for Mitchell. Their title run was built on strong defense paired with a struggling offense. Adding Mitchell’s scoring would give them a chance to defend their crown and possibly start building a dynasty.
Kelsey Plum’s season began with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she averaged career highs of 23.9 points and 6.4 assists per game and earned her fifth All-Star selection. Injuries kept her out of the game itself, and mid-season struggles led to her trade to the Phoenix Mercury. Now an unrestricted free agent, Plum will be a sought-after player.
The New York Liberty might present an intriguing destination. Coming off a disappointing season, and with Sabrina Ionescu’s scoring declining, Plum could provide the offensive surge needed to support Breanna Stewart’s championship ambitions.
Each of these players, Collier, Mitchell, and Plum, faces decisions that could reshape the WNBA landscape heading into 2027. Their next destinations remain unconfirmed, but the potential moves will attract attention across the league as teams prepare for the title race.
According to Yahoo Sports.
