The Indiana Fever are stirring up more drama than a reality TV show contestant with a hidden agenda. With the offseason upon us, questions loom larger than a seven-foot center. And just like that, the Fever decided to part ways with head coach Christie Sides, proving once again that a clean slate is the WNBA’s version of spring cleaning. Now, they’re on a mission to find a new head coach and shuffle their roster like a deck of cards at a poker table.
Keep Your Friends Close, and Your Stars Closer
First up in the “Must-Keep” club is Caitlin Clark, the crown jewel of the Fever’s roster. The first overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft has already dazzled fans with her skills, making it painfully obvious that the Fever are building their future around her—because who doesn’t want a generational talent leading the charge?
But let’s get to the real meat of the matter: Kelsey Mitchell. This shooting guard is set to become a free agent, and if the Fever let her slip away, they might as well hand Clark a map to the nearest exit. Mitchell, fresh off back-to-back All-Star appearances, is basically a hot commodity in the free agency bazaar. The Fever better be ready to “core” her (yes, that’s a thing) if they want to keep her around.
Then there’s Aliyah Boston, who should have a “Do Not Trade” sign tattooed on her forehead. The 22-year-old has already secured her spot as a future franchise cornerstone with two All-Star appearances and a Rookie of the Year title. Trading her? That’s like selling your house just to buy a new couch—ill-advised and regrettable.
The Expansion Draft Dilemma: Who’s Got the Golden Ticket?
As the Golden State Valkyries prepare for their inaugural season, the Fever find themselves at a crossroads: who to protect and who to let slip through the cracks like a soggy biscuit?
Naturally, Clark, Boston, and NaLyssa Smith will be on the protected list faster than you can say “WNBA expansion.” But Damiris Dantas, the seasoned veteran, could find herself unprotected. Sure, she’s got the experience, but after playing just 31 games in 2024, she might not be the shining star on a roster of fresh faces. The Valkyries could swoop in like vultures, hungry for a reliable player to keep their team from spiraling into chaos.
But hold on—what if the Fever decide to protect Dantas instead? That would leave either Lexie Hull or Temi Fagbenie vulnerable. Let’s face it: Hull’s shooting and connection with Clark make her more valuable than a coupon for free coffee.
So, What’s Next?
As the Fever navigate these turbulent waters, fans are left wondering: can they keep their core intact, or will the offseason turn into a game of musical chairs? With the potential for a roster shake-up, the Fever have a lot to prove. And if they’re not careful, they might find themselves the punchline of a joke about what happens when you let go of your best players.