ESPN Analyst Claims Indiana Fever More Dangerous Without Caitlin Clark

The Indiana Fever have experienced mixed success this WNBA season with and without their star guard Caitlin Clark, who has missed half of the games due to injuries. ESPN analyst and former Purdue coach Carolyn Peck controversially claimed that the Fever are "more dangerous" without Clark, citing the team's balanced attack led by players like Kelsey Mitchell, Aari McDonald, and Aliyah Boston, as well as their strong defensive intensity. Despite Peck's assertion, the Fever's win-loss record is nearly identical with Clark (5-4) and without her (5-5), suggesting the team can compete effectively either way. Critics argue that Clark's presence actually enhances the team by drawing defensive attention, creating opportunities for her teammates through her playmaking and scoring ability. Clark's shooting efficiency has dropped this season due to injuries, but she still averages impressive stats, including 18.2 points and 8.9 assists per game. Overall, the Fever's recent victories without Clark highlight the depth and coaching strength of the team, but many believe the best version of the Fever is with Clark healthy and leading the offense.