Lynx Coach Benches Key Players After Large Deficit Ahead Of Playoffs

Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve made the strategic decision to bench four starting players early in the team's matchup against Indiana Fever after the Lynx fell into a 29-point deficit. With the WNBA playoffs looming just days away, Reeve determined that preserving her players' physical condition took precedence over the regular season contest.

The move underscored the coaching staff's focus on playoff preparation rather than salvaging the game against Indiana. By reducing the workload on her key performers, Reeve aimed to ensure they would be well-rested and healthy for the postseason run beginning on Sunday.

The decision reflected a common practice in professional sports where teams nearing the playoffs manage player minutes and exposure to injuries during final regular season games. With the competitive demands of the WNBA playoffs ahead, the Lynx organization prioritized long-term success over individual game outcomes during the regular season's final stretch.