The Clark-less Fever have won one of the three games she’s missed and now play in Chicago

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, right, and guard Sophie Cunningham question a call in an WNBA game against the Washington MysticsAP

The Indiana Fever started the WNBA season with high hopes, counting on Caitlin Clark to lead them to victory. However, with a 3-4 record, things haven’t gone as planned. Injuries have hit hard and early, especially to their star guard who was an MVP favorite at the start of the season. She was dazzling fans with 19 points and a league-best 9.3 assists per game before a left quadriceps strain sidelined her for at least two weeks.

Clark is the engine of this team, and without her, the Fever’s offense has sputtered, lacking its usual spark. However, there is a silver lining: these setbacks are happening at the start of the season, giving the team time to regroup. Before the injuries, everyone saw the Fever as a playoff contender and Clark as an MVP candidate-goals that still feel within reach if they can navigate this rough patch.

Stephanie White’s Risky Play Turns the Tide

With Clark out and the backcourt crumbling-Sydney Colson and Sophie Cunningham were also injured-head coach Stephanie White was in a bind. She didn’t flinch. White used the WNBA’s hardship exception to sign veteran guard Aari McDonald, a move that had fans buzzing from the beginning. “We needed someone who could lock down on defense and keep our offense moving,” White explained, emphasizing her need for a steady hand to guide the team.

And what a payoff! McDonald’s debut was a game-changer, helping the Fever break a three-game losing streak with an 85-76 victory over the Washington Mystics. White gambled on McDonald’s energy and smarts, and so far, it’s looking like a winning bet-proof that even without Clark, this team has fight.

Aari McDonald Shines as Chicago Looms

Aari McDonald didn’t just show up; she took over. In her first game with the Fever, the former third overall draft pick scored seven points, had five assists, and had three steals in just 27 minutes. She ran the show, brought the hustle, and gave the 16,000 fans at Gainbridge Fieldhouse something to cheer about. However, her future is uncertain. Signed under the hardship rule, she might not stay once Clark and others return, especially with only $43,000 left under the salary cap. Who would make way for her? Maybe Sydney Colson, who logged 16 minutes in the win, or Brianna Turner, who’s barely played. It’s a tough decision looming over the roster.

Meanwhile, tomorrow’s clash with the Chicago Sky is heating up. Remember the season opener? The Fever crushed them by 35 points, and a scuffle between Clark and Angel Reese got the media and social media buzzing. With Clark still out, the Sky are eager for revenge, setting the stage for a fiery showdown.