The Minnesota Lynx ended the 2025 WNBA season with the best record but have the second-best chance (26.1%) to secure the No. 1 pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft. Their fate will be determined on Sunday, November 26th at 6:30pm ET on ESPN.
The Lynx currently hold the Chicago Sky’s first-round pick, obtained through a 2024 trade where Chicago acquired the No. 7 pick in the 2024 Draft to select Angel Reese. Minnesota later traded Haley Van Lith, the No. 11 pick in the 2025 Draft, to Chicago to gain exclusive rights to this pick swap.
This opportunity allows the experienced Lynx roster to bring in fresh, high-level young talent, potentially boosting their competitive edge if they secure the top draft spot. But if luck is on their side, which players should Minnesota target? Here are four prospects to consider and one to avoid.
Fraujai Johnson from LSU could be a perfect fit as a combo guard replacement for Courtney Williams, who might not return as she approaches her 32nd year. Johnson offers superior size, athleticism, and versatility which would complement Minnesota’s aggressive defense and add a new dynamic to their offense.
Olivia Miles of TCU is seen as the best pure point guard in the draft and could redefine the Lynx’s offense with her creative passing and improved three-point shooting. However, her defensive game may not be as aggressive as Minnesota typically demands.
Azzi Fudd from UConn represents a seamless transition to Minnesota’s lineup as a spot-up three-point shooter. She fits well into their veteran-led system and brings solid defense, with potential to develop into a more versatile offensive player.
Our Fam from Valencia is a tall, versatile forward with professional experience in Spain. She offers a future-oriented pick with her ability to run the floor, excel in pick-and-roll plays, and possibly shoot from distance, promising significant upside if the Lynx are patient.
Conversely, Lauren Betts from UCLA, though highly ranked in many draft boards, might not fit the Lynx’s modern, speed-and-switch focused style. Minnesota has favored smaller, more skilled players over traditional bigs, making Betts a less likely choice despite her size advantage.
Fan Take: This draft moment is crucial for Lynx fans and the broader WNBA community because it highlights the strategic shift in building championship teams through versatility and youthful talent. The choices made here could shape the future of the league and redefine how teams balance experience with promising new stars.
