Minnesota Lynx and Indiana Fever face significant playoff expectations

As the 2026 WNBA postseason approaches, the Minnesota Lynx and Indiana Fever enter the bracket facing the highest levels of pressure. The Lynx, who finished the regular season with a 31-9 record, look to overcome recent postseason setbacks and capitalize on a roster led by Napheesa Collier, who faces unrestricted free agency after this season. Meanwhile, the fifth-seeded Indiana Fever enter the playoffs with a star-studded lineup including Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, and Aliyah Boston. While the Fever have faced scrutiny regarding team dynamics and coaching, the organization maintains that the current roster remains ahead of its developmental schedule. The upcoming postseason serves as a critical period for both organizations as they compete against a field that includes the Las Vegas Aces, who enter the tournament with fewer external expectations.

• 7:00 PMYahoo Sports — Why the Minnesota Lynx and Indiana Fever face the most pressure in the WNBA playoffs—and why the Las Vegas Aces face the least