Latest Era, Same Ambition: Minnesota Lynx Secure Preseason Win Over Toronto Tempo
The Minnesota Lynx are entering the 2026 WNBA season with one of the most transformed rosters in franchise history. On May 1, 2026, the Lynx signaled that this transition is already bearing fruit, securing a preseason victory over the Toronto Tempo in front of 7,821 fans at the Target Center. While preseason results are often secondary to chemistry, this game served as a critical proof-of-concept for Head Coach Cheryl Reeve’s new-look squad.
The victory was defined by the seamless integration of high-profile veterans and international prospects, proving that the Lynx can maintain their championship pedigree despite significant roster turnover. With the regular season looming, the focus has shifted from identity-building to fine-tuning a rotation that blends established stars with fresh, hungry talent.
The Impact of the “Fresh Arrivals”
The most striking aspect of the current camp is the sheer volume of new faces. The Lynx have aggressively reshaped their frontcourt and perimeter depth through a mix of free agency and strategic signings.
Leading the charge is three-time WNBA champion Natasha Howard, who returns to Minnesota on a two-year, $1.4 million deal. Howard’s familiarity with the organization—having been part of the 2017 championship team—provides a veteran bridge for the newer arrivals. Joining her is Minnesota native Nia Coffey, whose homecoming from the Atlanta Dream adds local flavor and versatile forward play to the lineup.
Beyond the veterans, the Lynx are gambling on international talent and collegiate standouts. Key arrivals making waves in camp include:
- Olivia Miles: The second overall pick in the 2026 WNBA Draft, Miles is expected to be a primary engine for the Lynx’s offense.
- Emma Čechová: A 6-5 forward from the Czech Republic who has already impressed analysts with her interior presence and efficiency.
- Aubrey Griffin: A 2025 NCAA National Champion from UConn, signed to a rookie-scale contract to provide defensive tenacity.
- International Depth: The team has added Antonia Delaere (Belgium) and Eliška Hamzová (Czech Republic) to training camp contracts, diversifying the team’s tactical approach.
Facing the Tempo: A Historic Matchup
The opponent, the Toronto Tempo, represents a milestone for the league as the first WNBA franchise based outside the United States. Led by head coach Sandy Brondello, the Tempo entered their inaugural preseason campaign with an aggressive roster-building strategy, including the signing of Marina Mabrey and Brittney Sykes.
For the Lynx, playing the Tempo was more than just a tune-up. it was an opportunity to test their new defensive rotations against a team with high-level guard play. The game highlighted the Lynx’s ability to move the ball and maintain a cohesive flow despite the loss of key veterans like Bridget Carleton and Alanna Smith during the expansion draft and free agency periods.
Maintaining the Core
While the “new arrivals” captured the headlines, the victory was anchored by the returning core. The Lynx successfully re-signed five-time All-Star Napheesa Collier, along with guards Kayla McBride and Courtney Williams. This stability at the top allows Coach Reeve to experiment with the supporting cast without sacrificing the team’s fundamental identity.
“When you put a team together, you just want to make sure the puzzle fits,” Sandy Brondello, Head Coach of the Toronto Tempo
The Lynx’s success in this game suggests that the “puzzle” is coming together quickly in Minneapolis. The ball movement and defensive communication seen on May 1 indicate that the chemistry between the returning stars and the new arrivals is developing ahead of schedule.
Key Takeaways from the Preseason Clash
- Roster Depth: The Lynx are no longer relying on a tight rotation; the training camp contracts (Čechová, Delaere, Hamzová) are providing genuine competition for final roster spots.
- Veteran Leadership: Natasha Howard’s return provides an immediate leadership presence that stabilizes the younger players.
- Defensive Versatility: The addition of Aubrey Griffin and Nia Coffey gives the Lynx more options to switch and defend multiple positions.
- International Integration: The Czech and Belgian arrivals have integrated quickly, suggesting the Lynx’s global recruiting strategy is paying dividends.
Looking Ahead: The Regular Season Tip-Off
The preseason victory over Toronto serves as the final dress rehearsal before the regular season begins. The Minnesota Lynx will officially open their 2026 campaign at home against the Atlanta Dream on Sunday, May 10, at 6:00 p.m. CT.
As the team prepares for the home opener, the primary objective remains clear: integrate the new talent without losing the championship DNA that has defined the franchise. If the performance against the Tempo is any indication, the Lynx are ready to compete for a title in this new era of WNBA expansion.
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