The Indiana Fever are coming off a successful season and are determined to keep improving. They have made changes to their front office and brought in a new head coach with a focus on enhancing their defense. Caitlin Clark is a highly sought-after player in the WNBA, and every team is vying for her participation. The Fever’s main focus this offseason is to strengthen their roster, but they face a significant decision regarding Kelsey Mitchell.
Mitchell, a two-time All-Star, is currently an unrestricted free agent, but Indiana has the option to core her. This would involve offering her a one-year max contract at a time when many players are seeking short-term deals. Mitchell has excelled as a scorer alongside Clark, and losing her without compensation would be a huge blow to the Fever.
New president Kelly Krauskopf recently appeared on the Locked On Women’s Basketball podcast to discuss the Fever’s plans for Mitchell’s free agency.
Mitchell shared her story with The Player Tribune, hinting at exploring free agency, but Krauskopf made it clear on the podcast that the Fever intend to keep her at all costs.
Krauskopf stated, “She’s our number one priority. We have the option to core her, and it would be negligent of us not to take advantage of that opportunity.”
Coring a player in the WNBA grants exclusive negotiating rights on their next contract, similar to a team option for a one-year max contract in the NBA. By coring Mitchell, the Fever ensure she stays with the team or they receive compensation if she decides to leave. A trade is still a possibility, but Indiana holds the leverage.
Fans have been anxious about Mitchell’s future, but Krauskopf’s announcement has eased some concerns. The Fever are committed to bringing her back for the upcoming season and will core her. While Mitchell has the option to explore other opportunities or request a trade, it seems likely that she will remain with the team for another season.
Fever fans can look forward to a promising future as Krauskopf aims to build a championship-caliber team. Retaining Kelsey Mitchell is a vital part of their strategy, and the team is expected to make additional improvements. Exciting times lie ahead in the Caitlin Clark era, and supporters have reason to be optimistic.
