The Indiana Fever are making strides in the WNBA standings after their recent victory against the Chicago Sky, improving to a 16-16 record. With just three more wins, the team could secure a spot in the playoffs, or they might benefit from a few losses by the Atlanta Dream or Chicago Sky. While rookie Caitlin Clark has made a strong impact this season, Kelsey Mitchell has been the standout, leading the team in scoring. However, uncertainty looms over Mitchell’s future with the team, sparking discussions about her possible departure. Notably, analyst Rebecca Lobo recently shared her insights on Indiana’s offseason plans and Mitchell’s status.
During a recent appearance on ESPN, Rebecca Lobo was asked to clarify whether Kelsey Mitchell might leave the Fever at the end of the season. Lobo expressed doubts, saying, “I would say probably not, but I have to look into this further. I don’t think Kelsey Mitchell has ever been called, and I don’t think any other players on the roster are called. So even if Kelsey Mitchell wants to leave in free agency, I don’t know that she can,” Lobo explained on *The Elle Duncan Show*
.
Lobo also questioned whether Mitchell would even want to leave the Fever. The team has become an attractive destination for players, especially with their home games played in front of enthusiastic, sold-out crowds. This popularity could work in the Fever’s favor when negotiating with Mitchell and attracting other big-name players during the offseason. Lobo highlighted the opportunity for Indiana to leverage this momentum, saying, “I’m really intrigued by what they can do in free agency this offseason. Not only with Kelsey, but are they going to be able to entice some other big-name players to come play there because of the exposure? There’s a lot of pressure that comes with it, but it’s a whole different level of exposure now if you’re playing for Indiana.”
While Lobo’s comments have added an interesting perspective on the Fever’s offseason strategies, the team’s current focus remains on the ongoing WNBA season and their playoff push. However, the team must also prepare for the possibility of Mitchell exploring her options when the season concludes. Her outstanding performance this year could draw attention from other teams, and Mitchell herself has hinted at the possibility of leaving the Fever, fueling rumors about her future.
As the Fever continue their quest for a playoff spot, the team’s offseason decisions will be crucial in shaping their future. Whether Mitchell stays or departs, the Fever have the potential to strengthen their roster and build on their recent success. With free agency looming, Indiana’s moves during the offseason will be closely watched as they aim to retain key players like Mitchell and potentially bring in more talent to elevate their standing in the WNBA.
If Kelsey Mitchell were to leave the Indiana Fever, the team would need to find a strong replacement to maintain their offensive production and leadership. While finding someone with Mitchell’s scoring ability and experience will be challenging, here are a few potential candidates who could fill her shoes:
### 1. **Ariel Atkins (Washington Mystics)**
Atkins is an excellent two-way guard, known for her ability to score efficiently and provide solid defense. If she becomes available through free agency, Atkins could bring a balanced game to the Fever, filling some of the scoring void left by Mitchell while also enhancing the team’s defensive presence.
### 2. **Sabrina Ionescu (New York Liberty)**
Though less likely, if the Fever were able to acquire a player like Ionescu, it would be a game-changer. Known for her playmaking, scoring, and leadership, Ionescu would offer a well-rounded skill set. If the Liberty ever consider restructuring or if Indiana can entice Ionescu in free agency, she could be a transformative figure for the Fever.
### 3. **Kahleah Copper (Chicago Sky)**
Copper is a dynamic scorer and was a key player in Chicago’s championship run in 2021. With a similar playstyle to Mitchell, she would bring high energy, scoring, and leadership. She could fill the offensive gap Mitchell would leave and offer playoff experience.
### 4. **Arike Ogunbowale (Dallas Wings)**
Ogunbowale is one of the top scorers in the league and would be a dream replacement for Mitchell. She thrives in high-pressure moments and has a scorer’s mentality. If Indiana could pull off a trade or sign her in free agency, Ogunbowale would immediately elevate the team’s offense.
### 5. **Jewell Loyd (Seattle Storm)**
Loyd, who has been one of the most consistent scorers for Seattle, would be an excellent replacement for Mitchell. Her scoring ability, playoff experience, and leadership qualities would make her a valuable asset to the Fever if Seattle enters a rebuilding phase or she decides to test free agency.
### 6. **Draft Prospects**
If the Fever are looking to the future and not just immediate replacements, they could target top prospects in the upcoming WNBA Draft. Notably, prospects like **Caitlin Clark** (if she declares) or **Paige Bueckers** offer tremendous potential. Clark, already making waves as a rookie, could further elevate her game, while Bueckers is considered one of the most talented young guards in recent memory.
### 7. **Diamond DeShields (Dallas Wings)**
DeShields is a versatile guard/forward who can contribute on both ends of the floor. Her athleticism and scoring ability would provide the Fever with a strong option to replace Mitchell, and she brings the experience of competing at a high level in the playoffs.
### 8. **Courtney Williams (Chicago Sky)**
Williams, known for her scoring and mid-range game, could be a good fit in Indiana’s backcourt. She’s a playmaker with a clutch gene, and if Chicago looks to make changes in their roster, Williams could be an option.
The Fever will have a few options depending on how they navigate free agency, trades, or the draft. Replacing Mitchell will be tough, but Indiana has the chance to retool with talent that fits their system and complements their rising stars like Caitlin Clark.