The Indiana Fever is probably getting used to the outsized attention the organization and team gets, but that doesn't mean it's always easy to deal with. That's something to keep in mind as conversations about what's working and not working for the Fever continue to simmer online. Last night's game against the Atlanta Dream showcased the Fever at their offensive best, but also brought to light this season's recurrent defensive issues.
First things first: the Fever is actually enjoying the strongest start to a season since 2012. That might come as a surprise to commentators who like to offer knee-jerk responses to every failure, whether perceived or real. The team is three games away from first place in the WNBA standings, and three games above .500.
It's also worth noting that despite speculation that suggests otherwise, Caitlin Clark has improved nearly all of her stats across the board this season—something that suggests she's right on time to be doing so, since many point guards have historically done exactly the same thing in their third season.
The Indiana Fever is still working out defensive strategies
While the Fever's offense is tight and dialed in, their defense could still use some work. No one is more aware of that than the Fever. The team hasn't hidden the fact that they know the defense needs to be stronger, and it's been apparent that Clark is playing defense in a way that she never really has before.
While speaking to ESPN this week, Clark noted that her defense isn't bad — it's just not as strong as it could be. "I've never been the best defender, and I understand that, but I'm also smart. I can read angles. I have a high IQ," she explained.
The team's defense also doesn't soley come down to one player, something the team's head coach Stephanie White also commented on. "We've got to take away the tendencies, and collectively, as a team, we've got to be better in building that confidence as well. Like understanding where we are in our gaps, understanding where we are in our rotations and in our help," White told the outlet.
Clark also noted that while it might seem like the team is struggling from the outside looking in, it doesn't feel like that for the players on the court.
What's next for the Indiana Fever
The Fever will travel to Atlanta Saturday to face the Dream once more. After that, they return to Indiana and host the Phoenix Mercury in two games on June 22 and June 24.
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