When Kelly Krauskopf and Stephanie White joined forces, they had a clear vision for a revamped Indiana Fever team. Though we have yet to see this new-look squad in action, I’m here to tell you exactly how it’s all coming together. This could lead to a triumphant turnaround for the Fever.
The Fever’s management has expressed their desire to surround Caitlin Clark, Aliyah Boston, and the rest of the team with veteran players. And guess what? A top-tier veteran free agent is available—a former MVP. Now, while there has been speculation, I can confirm, based on my sources, that this isn’t just a rumor. The Indiana Fever is seriously considering adding a former MVP to their roster.
This player is a sharpshooter who wants to be on a team that’s built to win. And what better destination than Indiana? They already have sharpshooters like Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell, but what they lack is a big player who can consistently hit threes. NaLyssa Smith isn’t quite that player. However, the veteran in question—Elena Delle Donne—can fill that role perfectly.
Delle Donne’s situation with the Washington Mystics didn’t go well. In fact, she sat out an entire season rather than play for them. Washington tried to keep her by placing a core designation on her, but that didn’t change her decision. Now, as a free agent, she’s looking for a fresh start—and Indiana might just be the right fit.
Let’s take a look at the WNBA’s unrestricted free agents. As you can see, Elena Delle Donne is available. This makes perfect sense for the Fever. She’s an elite shooter, a former MVP, and she brings championship experience, having won a title with the Mystics in 2019. That kind of leadership and playoff pedigree is exactly what this young Indiana team needs.
In the 2023 season, Delle Donne averaged 16 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game while shooting 48% from the field and 39% from deep. Despite her strong performance, the Mystics struggled, finishing with an 18-22 record and getting eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. With Washington not expected to contend in 2024, it’s no surprise that Delle Donne is weighing her options.
Given her experience and skill set, she could easily start for the Fever—potentially replacing NaLyssa Smith in the lineup. Whether she starts or comes off the bench, she would be an immediate impact player. Indiana is looking for someone like her—someone who can step in and contribute right away.
