Lynx Roster Update: The Uncertain Future of Nikolina Milic and the Potential Return of Cecilia Zandalasini

Key Points

• Nikolina Milic, Serbian forward for the Minnesota Lynx, may miss the 2024 season due to injury, impacting team depth.
• Cecilia Zandalasini, known for her sharpshooting, may return to the Lynx after playing in Italy, bypassing the WNBA’s prioritization rule.
• Lynx forward Napheesa Collier represents the USA in the 2024 FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament, showcasing the team’s international talent.
• The Lynx’s roster dynamics and international representation underline the team’s influence in both the WNBA and global basketball stages.

The Lynx’s Roster Dilemma: Nikolina Milic’s Uncertain Future

In the dynamic world of WNBA, the Minnesota Lynx face a potentially significant shift in their lineup for the upcoming 2024 season. Nikolina Milic, the Serbian forward who has been a key backup for the Lynx over the past two seasons, may be sidelined due to lingering injury issues. Milic, known for her valuable contributions off the bench with an average of 12.3 minutes, 5.9 points, and 2.7 rebounds per game, is under the cloud of uncertainty regarding her participation this season. Lynx’s president of basketball operations and coach, Cheryl Reeve, highlighted the concern, emphasizing the impact Milic’s absence could have on the team’s strategy and depth.

The Awaited Return of Cecilia Zandalasini

On a brighter note, the Lynx could witness the return of the Italian sharpshooter, Cecilia Zandalasini, adding a layer of excitement and potential to the team’s roster. Zandalasini, who briefly dazzled Lynx fans in 2017 and the entire 2018 season, is remembered for her scoring ability, particularly her 38.3 percent accuracy from the three-point line. Currently honing her skills in Italy, Zandalasini’s return to the WNBA is highly anticipated. However, her arrival might be delayed as she concludes the Italian season. Notably, Zandalasini isn’t bound by the WNBA’s prioritization rule due to her limited games in the league, giving the Lynx exclusive negotiating rights to her talent.

Lynx Stars Shine on the International Stage

In addition to the roster changes, the Lynx have more to celebrate as forward Napheesa Collier is set to represent the USA at the 2024 FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Belgium. Under the guidance of Lynx’s own Cheryl Reeve, the USA team boasts a stellar lineup, including Ariel Atkins, Aliyah Boston, Kahleah Copper, Rhyne Howard, Sabrina Ionescu, Jewell Loyd, Kelsey Plum, Breanna Stewart, Diana Taurasi, Alyssa Thomas, and Jackie Young. This international participation underscores the Lynx’s influence and contribution to the global basketball stage, promising an exciting and competitive season ahead.

As the Lynx navigate through these potential roster changes, fans remain eager to see how the team evolves. The possible absence of Milic and the anticipated return of Zandalasini could significantly shape the team’s dynamics, offering both challenges and opportunities. With the spotlight also on Lynx players in the international arena, the 2024 season is shaping up to be a pivotal year for the team and its supporters.

FAQs

• Why might Nikolina Milic miss the 2024 Lynx season?

Nikolina Milic may miss the season due to lingering injury issues, as indicated by Lynx president of basketball operations and coach Cheryl Reeve.

• Can Cecilia Zandalasini play for the Lynx upon her return from Italy?

Yes, Cecilia Zandalasini can return to play for the Lynx as she is not subject to the WNBA’s prioritization rule due to her limited number of WNBA games, and the Lynx hold exclusive negotiating rights with her.

• What significance does Napheesa Collier’s selection for the USA team hold for the Lynx?

Napheesa Collier’s selection for the USA team in the 2024 FIBA Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament highlights the Lynx’s contribution to the sport on an international level and showcases the team’s talent on the global stage.