In Caitlin Clark’s rookie season, a lot was made about her ‘rivalry’ with the GOAT and former Phoenix Mercury superstar Diana Taurasi. However, Clark instead got hugs and in-game jokes from DT and standing ovation from the audience. In fact, the Fever swept their Phoenix regular season series to avenge their last playoff appearance in 2016 where DT handed the team a loss. This season, the momentum and chemistry were bound to enhance.

Entering this year, Caitlin Clark was a favorite to win the league MVP award. The reigning WNBA ROTY was fourth last season, and she indeed proved her potential. The Fever was supposed to go deep into the playoffs. ESPN’s Rebecca Lobo even claimed, “They’re title contenders” in the pre-season discussions. And their Commissioner’s Cup win over a team like the Minnesota Lynx was like words on stone. However, their franchise player has been watching from the sidelines.

Throughout the season, Clark had injuries. She first missed 5 games after a left quad strain. Then four games from a left groin injury. Now, with a groin injury that also includes her right one. And we have already counted 4. Although she has been working with the medical team, the Des Moines native has been looking for a chance to return. Now, the Fever is back home to host the Mercury for the first time this season on Wednesday night. Could we expect the point guard to pop in for a few minutes? Well, the Indiana Fever had some pre-game updates.

In their latest tweet captioned “tuesday training,” almost all of the team could be seen grinding at practice. The video shows the likes of Aliyah Boston, Sophie Cunningham, Lexie Hull, and Kelsey Mitchell. Even latest additions Chloe Bibby and Aari McDonald are at work with HC Stephanie White. However, one face is prominently missing from the practice update. Naturally, fans wondered, “Where is Caitlin? Is she still on the team?” Well, she’s, of course, still part of the team. But as expected, Caitlin Clark won’t be suiting up against the Mercury.

Shortly after practice wrapped up, the Indiana Fever released their injury report, confirming what many had feared: Clark is ruled out for Wednesday night’s game. Even ESPN has her out on their sheet with “doesn’t yet have a timetable to return,” written.

The Indiana Fever issued an official update on Clark’s injury status and recovery on Thursday, July 24. “Clark will continue working with the medical team on her recovery and rehabilitation, with the priority on her long-term health and well-being. There is no timetable available for her return,” the Fever’s statement read.

Last, Clark exited in the final minute of Indiana’s 85-77 win over the Connecticut Sun on July 15. She hasn’t played since four regular season games now. In fact, she stepped back from the 3-point contest as well as the All-Star game she was captaining. The possibility is high that the number of days is going up, and the odds of her claiming MVP are going down. But for the Fever, winning games and giving Clark the satisfaction to appear in the playoffs seems like a perfect gift. And so, they might be the trade market.

The Indiana Fever eyes a Caitlin Clark replacement

When the 6-foot guard sits out the game against Mercury, it would be her 14th missed regular-season game. She has already missed half the Fever games already. Not how we imagined Clark’s sophomore year would go after the stellar rookie campaign that got her individual honors and led the Fever to its first playoff berth since 2016.

Contrary to their massive resurgence last year, the Fever is riddled with inconsistencies this time. Now, Clark’s injuries have prompted ESPN insiders to add to the trade buzz. Aiming at Damiris Dantas, Kevin Pelton claimed, “As a third post behind starters Aliyah Boston and Natasha Howard, (Myisha) Hines-Allen should be an improvement. And with the Wings five games out of the eighth seed, getting anything in return would probably make this trade worth it.”

While Dantas is also facing a shooting slump this year, she has been a defensive anchor for the team as and when they’ve wanted one. In fact, she’s one of the best shooters from the top of the arc out of the bench for White as well. Moreover, her 6-ft-4 height plays an essential role in a rather short Indiana team. Still, Pelton suggests adding some star power in Clark’s absence. Just looking from offensive end, it makes some sense with Allen-Hines’ 29.6% shooting from the deep over the Brazilian’s 26.5% this season.

He further predicted that Indiana would trade a 2026 second-round pick with center Damiris Dantas to Dallas in exchange for forward Myisha Hines-Allen. After all, a WNBA champion might be what’s needed to fill the Caitlin Clark-shaped hole in the offense. For now, a rather more competitive Phoenix Mercury, standing tall at third in the league, will be facing a Clark-less Fever.