The Indiana Fever had a season that was both strong and disappointing. They made the playoffs briefly before exiting swiftly, similar to how Caitlin Clark’s name was called on draft night. With Clark now on a budget-friendly contract, the real challenge is reshaping the roster and team culture to support her. It’s essential to have a strategy beyond just handing her the ball and hoping for the best, given her exceptional talent.
The Fever’s best prospect since Tamika Catchings, Clark, needs help. In 2024, there were inconsistencies among certain players, and team cohesion seemed to be lacking. So, how can this team improve and maximize their potential while Clark is still young and cost-effective?
The following steps may seem like armchair GM decisions, but each one will be justified. These strategies are intended to make the team better than they were in 2024. Let’s hope that the team’s management is considering these suggestions.
Step 1: Do Not Re-sign either UFA
It’s difficult to part ways with familiar faces like Erica Wheeler and Kelsey Mitchell. However, with their expiring contracts totaling $414,154, it’s better to allocate that money elsewhere. Wheeler’s scoring off the bench could be valuable, but the team needs improvement in various areas, particularly defensively, where her stats can be easily surpassed. As for Mitchell, despite her impressive scoring average, her fit with Clark hasn’t been optimal, and her defensive impact hasn’t been significant.
Step 2: Trade NaLyssa Smith to the Atlanta Dream for Allisha Gray
NaLyssa Smith, despite her potential, has struggled to find her role on the team. A trade to acquire Allisha Gray, a premier two-way player, would benefit the team significantly. Gray’s skillset complements the team’s needs, especially in the backcourt, and her contributions would help fill the void left by Mitchell’s departure.
Step 3: Trade/Expose the Multi-Year, Protected Deals for Mid-Level Player
Avoid signing mid-level players to long-term contracts with protections that hinder flexibility. Consider exposing players like Katie Lou Samuelson and Damiris Dantas to create room for potential acquisitions. This move could help address salary inefficiencies and enhance roster options.
Step 4: Trade KLS and picks to Washington for Brittney Sykes
Utilize assets like Katie Lou Samuelson and draft picks to acquire veterans like Brittney Sykes. Sykes’ experience and skills would be valuable additions to the team, providing leadership and enhancing offensive capabilities. This trade could benefit both teams while improving Indiana’s roster dynamics.
Step 5: Sign Brionna Jones
Despite previous frontcourt compatibility issues, signing Brionna Jones could bring balance and depth to the team. Jones’ defensive prowess and scoring abilities would strengthen the team, especially with the potential departure of Damiris Dantas. Her addition could bolster the team’s frontcourt and enhance overall performance.
Step 6: Sign Other Locker Room Vets Who Contribute and Improve the Defense, Bench
Consider signing veteran players like Myisha Hines-Allen, Kennedy Burke, and Shatori Walker-Kimbrough to enhance team chemistry and provide quality bench support. These players could contribute effectively on both ends of the court, addressing key team weaknesses and improving overall performance.
The team’s roster and salary details are outlined below, showcasing strategic signings while maintaining cap space and a balanced roster.
| Player | Salary |
|---|---|
| Caitlin Clark | $78,066 |
Step 7: Coaching Changes
Coaching adjustments are crucial to maximize player potential and team performance. Implementing new rotations, offensive sets, and a balanced approach is essential for success. The new head coach, Stephanie White, known for innovative strategies, could elevate the team’s offensive efficiency and overall performance, aligning with player personnel changes for optimal results.
To conclude, while the proposed actions may seem drastic, the team must make calculated moves to enhance their competitiveness during the Clark era and progress towards championship contention.
