The Indiana Fever are making waves as they shake up their roster for the upcoming 2025 WNBA season, making substantial moves aimed at boosting their competitiveness and reinvigorated play style. Among the most notable developments is the trade of NaLyssa Smith to the Dallas Wings and the acquisition of Sophie Cunningham from the Phoenix Mercury, along with the anticipated signing of veteran star Natasha Howard.
The Fever's roster transition kicked off with the announcement of Cunningham's arrival, as she moves from Phoenix after six seasons with the Mercury. The 28-year-old guard was drafted 13th overall back in 2019 and has been known for her shooting prowess, particularly from deep. Last season, she averaged 8.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. During her tenure at the University of Missouri, Cunningham was recognized as the all-time leading scorer for the Tigers, accumulating 2,187 points. She both played and started all 40 games last season, showcasing her reliability and contribution to game plans.
To facilitate this trade, Indiana reportedly sent Smith, who was the second overall pick of the 2022 WNBA Draft, along with their No. 8 draft pick to Dallas. Smith's production had been decreasing recently, registering averages of 10.6 points and 7.1 rebounds last season, which, combined with her vocal frustration over playing time, likely influenced the decision. Smith will return to Texas, with her collegiate roots at Baylor and will now look to impact the Wings.
Meanwhile, the Fever's excitement doesn't end with Cunningham's acquisition. They are poised to add Natasha Howard, recognized for her impressive defensive skills and championship pedigree. With the Fever originally drafting Howard back in 2014, her return signifies not just nostalgia but also optimism. Howard, who has won three WNBA championships and showcased her capabilities with averages of 17.6 points and 6.7 rebounds last season with the Dallas Wings, brings invaluable experience and leadership. Howard also clinched the league's Defensive Player of the Year award and was named to multiple All-Star teams during her illustrious career.
With these new additions, the Fever's lineup appears to shift significantly. The potential starting five could include star guard Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston, the newly joined Howard, and Cunningham. This restructured team looks to leverage both youth and experience as they aim to move beyond last season's playoff exit after finishing with a record of 20-20.
Retaining key players such as Mitchell, who has also been re-signed during this offseason, is part of the Fever's overall strategy to maintain continuity and develop chemistry as they prepare for competitive play. The youthful exuberance of Rookies of the Year like Clark and Boston, alongside seasoned veterans such as Howard and Cunningham, sets the stage for intriguing gameplay dynamics.
Overall, these moves signify the Fever's ambitious vision for the upcoming WNBA season. By offloading Smith, they not only clear the way for new talent but also make room for fresh strategies to take hold. The Fever are seeking not just to sustain their growth but to set themselves up favorably against their rivals. Fans, players, and analysts alike are watchfully optimistic about Indiana's renewed efforts to advance deep within the playoff framework this season, marking the end of one era and the beginning of another. This ambitious and feverish free agency period could just be what the Fever needed to become serious contenders.