The Indiana Fever’s 2025 offseason is shaping up to be a critical one as they aim to continue their progress from last season. Despite making the playoffs for the first time since 2016, the team still faces significant challenges, particularly in defense. With over $650,000 in cap space, they have the opportunity to target high-profile free agents to bolster their roster and take their growth to the next level. However, the key question remains: will they be able to improve defensively while managing the expectations for the team’s offensive stars?
Kelsey Mitchell, the Fever’s All-Star shooting guard, had an exceptional 2024 season, setting career highs in points per game (19.2) and field goal percentage (46.8). After her first playoff appearance, Mitchell’s return seems almost certain, as she continues to be one of the team’s most reliable offensive players. However, the issue for the Fever is whether bringing back Mitchell, who could command a salary close to $250,000, is the right move when the team’s biggest need lies in its defense. While Mitchell excels offensively, her return might not be enough to address the team’s deeper flaws, especially with a defense that ranked second-to-last in the league.
One of the main challenges for the Fever is their defensive struggles. Last season, Lexie Hull stood out as the team’s best perimeter defender, but even her efforts couldn’t prevent the Fever from allowing opponents to score at will. Hull’s ability to guard the toughest assignments on the wing was commendable, yet it wasn’t enough to compensate for the overall defensive deficiencies. As they move into free agency, Indiana must decide whether to continue focusing on offensive firepower or shift their attention to addressing defensive weaknesses. The addition of a player like DeWanna Bonner or Alyssa Thomas could make a significant difference, especially in terms of defensive presence.
Beyond Mitchell, the Fever’s roster decisions are equally important. The team is currently in a situation where financial flexibility is limited, with their two highest-paid players, Damiris Dantas and Katie Lou Samuelson, primarily coming off the bench. Samuelson, while a valuable locker room presence, did not provide enough on-court production to justify her salary in 2024. Dantas, on the other hand, struggled both on and off the court, and it remains unclear whether a full season of healthy play could change her impact. If the Fever are to compete at a higher level, they may need to make difficult decisions about these players to free up roster spots and cap space for more impactful signings.
Despite these internal challenges, the Fever have a promising future. The team’s cap space and draft picks offer a pathway to adding significant talent, particularly with the potential signing of a veteran like Erica Wheeler or a younger, impactful player. However, the most crucial decision will likely revolve around Kelsey Mitchell. While her return is a given for many, the Fever must carefully consider if this move aligns with their long-term goals, especially when balancing the need for improved defense. If the Fever can strike the right balance between offensive strength and defensive capability, they could take another significant step forward in 2025.
