The Indiana Fever’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster. Despite a retained core and key veteran additions, the team has only managed one three-game winning streak all year. A 14–12 record keeps them in the sixth seed and the playoff picture, but Caitlin Clark’s injury-riddled sophomore campaign has left fans wondering what could have been.

While Clark’s absence has dominated headlines, Kelsey Mitchell has quietly had the best year of her career. Her scoring is at an all-time high, and she’s putting together her second-best shooting season in a Fever uniform. Yet despite her heroics, Mitchell continues to be overshadowed by Caitlin Clark.

Playing alongside Caitlin Clark has obvious benefits: the national spotlight, packed arenas, and highlights passing that opens up the floor.

On a recent podcast segment discussing the best 3-point shooter of the season, analyst Jordan Robinson lobbied for Mitchell. But her fellow panelists chose Caitlin Clark instead. One analyst even joked, “Somebody could cover Caitlin’s eyes up, and she’s still making five out of ten. That’s how much of that’s her.”

Robinson respectfully disagreed, noting that while she loves Clark, Mitchell’s consistency this year makes her the rightful choice. Statistically, the case is clear: Clark is shooting just 27.9% from deep this season due to her injuries and limited appearances, while Mitchell has been a reliable weapon from beyond the arc.

Mitchell also joined Clark in an exclusive piece of Fever history this month. In a win over the Chicago Sky, she became only the second Fever player, after Clark, to record 35+ points, 5+ assists, and 5+ threes in a single game. Yet even that milestone barely moved the needle compared to the coverage Clark typically receives.

Clark’s injuries have left fans anxiously waiting for updates, especially as the Fever guide the playoff picture without her. The mystery surrounding her return deepened after the team’s latest practice session.

What Does Caitlin Clark’s Absence Reveal About Her Recovery?

The star guard has played only 13 games, missing more than she’s suited up for due to three separate soft tissue injuries. Her current groin issue has kept her out of four straight games, including the highly anticipated Indiana-hosted All-Star Weekend. Can the Indiana Fever Win Without Caitlin Clark?

The Fever’s latest practice footage offered a telling update, Clark was nowhere to be seen. While the team hasn’t given a timetable for her return, players typically begin practicing before returning to game action—suggesting her comeback is still a ways off.

For now, Kelsey Mitchell is keeping the Fever afloat. But if Indiana wants to do more than make the postseason, it needs both Mitchell’s scoring and a fully healthy Caitlin Clark to ignite a serious playoff run.