The Indiana Fever’s first-round playoff exit has fans wondering what is next. Caitlin Clark plans to take some time off, but will they get to see her back on the floor before the WNBA season begins in May 2025? The Fever are eager to upgrade their roster and must learn from this season.
Indiana needs pieces that fit around Clark if they plan on taking the next step. Adding shooting and defense is a must. The Fever must keep Kelsey Mitchell and will likely make her their core player. With Clark, Aliyah Boston, and Mitchell, Indiana has the makings of a strong squad it is all about upgrading on the margins.
NaLyssa Smith started the majority of the season before being benched in Game 2 against the Sun. She played just four minutes in the deciding contest and was completely ineffective. Things were headed south, but Smith’s latest move all but confirmed her exit.
NaLyssa Smith removed Fever from bio after a rough end to the season
The number two overall pick in 2022 has spent her first three WNBA seasons in Indiana, but there is no longer mention of the Fever in her bio on Instagram. Smith shared a lengthy post about the difficult season on social media, which fans can read below.
well um,
— #1 (@NaLyssaSmith) September 26, 2024
one, i could’ve never imagined my 3rd year to go like this lol but i know there’s a lesson in every loss. the love i have for my teammates will forever be unmatched the amount of times yall picked me up & just brightened up my day by jus making me laugh when yall knew… pic.twitter.com/0nwoqCRmNs
It is likely best for both sides to part ways at this point. Smith averaged 15.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 28.5 minutes per game in 2023. She is a skilled player capable of being one of the top scorers and rebounders on her team. Smith’s fit next to Caitlin Clark on the Fever was not ideal, but she could be back averaging monster numbers in the right situation in 2025.
Indiana needs someone who can space the floor and offers more on the defensive end. Clark will feed her teammates open looks, but Smith shoots under 30 percent from 3-point range. The Fever just need a superior fit to take the next step.
DiJonai Carrington tweeted her support of Smith and desire to see her in a different situation during their series against the Sun.
10 toes down for you❤️🤞🏽 #FreeHer https://t.co/VsauVcSCFQ
— dιjonaι carrιngтon♛ (@DijonaiVictoria) September 26, 2024
Smith is under contract for the 2025 season. She was asked about a potential exit and her post on social media during exit interviews, and the 24-year-old responded with uncertainty about what is in her future.
Smith has not requested a trade, but the Fever will likely shop her. If they cannot find a deal, expect Indiana to leave the 6’4 forward unprotected in the expansion draft. The Golden State Valkyries may jump at the chance to add a former number two overall draft pick and potential leading scorer.
The Indiana Fever will look different in 2025. Expect roster upgrades from new president Kelly Krauskopf, and an improved Caitlin Clark leading their charge. NaLyssa Smith will likely be elsewhere as the Fever attempt to contend for a title. The pressure is on, so stay tuned for all the latest.