Fever desperately need Kelsey Mitchell (and must make it right situation for her)

The Indiana Fever had a breakout season behind Caitlin Clark. Kelsey Mitchell was drafted second overall by the franchise in 2018 and had never been in the playoffs until this season. She has continued to improve and found a new level after the Olympic break. The Fever’s playoff run was crucial, but it is only the beginning.

Clark is eager to rest this offseason, but it is a crucial one for the franchise. Mitchell, Eric Wheeler, and Temi Fagbenle enter free agency. Indiana must upgrade their roster and find the right pieces to put around Clark. They want to contend for a championship, and one piece of their offseason plan is clear.

The Fever cannot afford to lose Mitchell. The two-time All-Star talked about her upcoming free agency, and Indiana has work to do to keep her.

Fever must make it the right situation for Kelsey Mitchell

The 28-year-old responded with this about her interest in re-signing with Indiana in free agency during her exit interview on Sept. 27.

“I need to do what is best for me. That is not hanging my hat on one team or another, but I’ve got to be selfish about that process. When I know, you’ll know.”

It sounds like the two-time All-Star plans to test the market but is in a tricky spot. The salary cap is expected to jump significantly in 2026, so nobody will want a multi-year contract. That means Mitchell be searching for a one-year max deal, but the Fever have an advantage.

Indiana can designate Mitchell as a core player and give her a one-year max contract. It would keep her with the franchise, but they still must make this the place where she wants to be.

The 28-year-old has only played for one WNBA franchise. She keeps improving in Indiana, and the Fever need her as a play-finisher off Caitlin Clark. Mitchell is an elite scorer and floor spacer. Indiana will not find someone better in free agency and will still have room to add if Mitchell signs a max deal.

The Indiana Fever need Kelsey Mitchell and must give her what she wants. They were at their best when Mitchell was playing well. She was the team’s leading scorer in the playoffs and should continue to improve.

Mitchell, Clark, and Aliyah Boston gives the Fever a strong Big 3 that can compete with any franchise. They need the role players to make them a true contender, and the front office should do whatever possible to find them this offseason. Keeping Mitchell is a must and should be the team’s top priority.