Fever are 'more dangerous' without Caitlin Clark: ESPN analyst
Share this @internewscast.com

One ESPN analyst stirred the pot on “SportsCenter” after the Fever’s win on Thursday.

And it was yet another without the injured Caitlin Clark.

Carolyn Peck claimed that the Fever are actually “more dangerous” without their star guard.

“I believe Indiana becomes even more formidable when Caitlin Clark is not playing because she usually dominates the ball,” she commented. “Clark often has the ball, which gives you a clear target to focus on. Without her, Indiana showcases a variety of other strengths.” 


Caitlin Clark has had an uneasy 2025 season, largely due to ongoing injuries.
Caitlin Clark has had an uneasy 2025 season, largely due to ongoing injuries. Getty Images

The Fever improved to 9-8 following their stunning 81-54 rout of the Aces despite Clark’s absence.

One of Indiana’s other standout players in the backcourt, Kelsey Mitchell, achieved a team-best 25 points, shooting 9-of-18 with four successful three-pointers out of six attempts.

Indiana also topped the Minnesota Lynx 74-59 in the Commissioner’s Cup Final without Clark.

“With a point guard like Kelsey Mitchell, paired with perimeter plays from Aari McDonald, and a strong post player like Aliyah Boston, Indiana presents a significant challenge,” Peck explained. “Their strength, particularly on defense, makes them a formidable team.”

With Clark, the Fever are 5–4, averaging an 85.0 offensive rating.

Without Clark, Indiana has posted a 5-4 record as well — including the Cup win — but with a modest decline in offense, averaging around an 80.2 offensive rating, although their defense’s points allowed drops by nearly five per 100 possessions. 

Clark’s injury-plagued season has caused her to miss half the Fever games this year due to a left quad strain and a groin ailment.

And Peck notes that others have elevated in her absence, which does tend to happen when a high-usage player is sidelined, especially on the defensive end because the director of heliocentric offensive play hardly has the energy to be an elite defender.


Carolyn Peck speaking at a podium.
Carolyn Peck was complimentary of the Fever without Caitlin Clark. NBAE via Getty Images

That said, it’s hard to build a case for the Fever being more potent without Clark in the long term, despite their encouraging moments.

The high-profile sophomore has been named an All-Star for a second consecutive season despite her injuries.

Clark averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists and 5.6 turnovers on 42/34/91 shooting splits as a rookie.

This season, Clark is at 18.2 points, 8.9 assists and 5.9 turnovers per game.

Clark is expected to miss yet another game, her 1oth of the season, as the Fever play the Sparks on Saturday.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Israel identifies remains of 10th deceased hostage handed over by Hamas

Israel Confirms Identification of Tenth Deceased Hostage’s Remains Returned by Hamas

In a recent development, Israel confirmed on Saturday that the remains handed…
'No Kings' protest Chicago today: Thousands to gather in Grant Park to oppose Donald Trump administration, Chicago ICE arrests

Chicago Unites: Thousands Rally in Grant Park to Protest Trump’s Policies and ICE Actions

CHICAGO (WLS) — Organizers behind the “No Kings” movement anticipate a large…
How university indoctrination turned deadly, and why one scholar says it’s only getting worse

Deadly Consequences: Scholar Warns of Escalating University Indoctrination Crisis

The tragic death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and a violent school…
Trump immigration crackdown may eliminate 15M workers by 2035: Study

Impact of Trump’s Immigration Policy: Could It Lead to a 15 Million Worker Shortfall by 2035?

In a recent report released on Friday, new findings indicate that President…
UVU professor and former FBI agent warns of new pattern of political violence after Charlie Kirk assassination

Left-Wing Academics Intensify Critique of Charlie Kirk’s Legacy Following His Assassination

Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University in Orem…
Gaza famine claims face mounting scrutiny as mortality data falls far short of predictions

Expert Analysis Reveals Discrepancy in Predicted Gaza Famine Death Toll: Scrutiny Intensifies

As humanitarian aid continues to pour into Gaza following a ceasefire deal…
Remains of last female Hamas hostage and IDF soldier handed over to Israel

Israel Receives Remains of Final Female Hamas Hostage and IDF Soldier

Amb. Waltz: No one will be left behind in Gaza U.S. Ambassador…
Foster Farms expands corn dog recall

Foster Farms Expands Recall: Corn Dogs Pulled from Shelves Nationwide Over Safety Concerns

In a concerning health alert, injuries linked to pieces of wood found…
Why do people wear inflatable costumes to 'No Kings' protests?

Unpacking the Inflatable Costume Phenomenon: Why Protesters Choose Air-Filled Attire at ‘No Kings’ Demonstrations

The strategy first emerged in Portland, Oregon, amid protests against U.S. Immigration…
Fox News True Crime Newsletter: Alex Murdaugh's money man, Charles Manson's cult, 'Smiley Face' killer theory

The Untold Story of Alex Murdaugh: Greed and Corruption Topple a Lowcountry Legal Dynasty

The dramatic saga of Alex Murdaugh, a once-respected legal figure from South…
Two illegal immigrant police officers busted in just 3 months have one thing in common

Uncovering the Connection: Two Illegal Immigrant Police Officers Arrested in Three Months Share a Common Link

In a startling revelation, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operation has…
Simone Biles in Chicago: Olympic gymnast speaks with children in foster care system at Friends of the Children event in West Loop

Simone Biles Inspires Chicago’s Foster Youth: Olympic Legend Engages with Future Stars at Friends of the Children Event

In the Windy City, Olympic champion Simone Biles has become a familiar…