Fever president makes plan for Kelsey Mitchell’s free agency abundantly clear

The Indiana Fever are fresh off a breakout season but have no plans of stopping there. They revamped their front office and brought in a new head coach focused on improving their defense. Caitlin Clark is the biggest draw in the W and every league is trying to convince her to take part. The Fever are focused on improving their roster this offseason, but have a massive decision to make on Kelsey Mitchell.

The two-time All-Star is an unrestricted free agent, but Indiana has the option to core her. It would mean offering a one-year max contract in an offseason where every player will be searching for a single-season deal. Mitchell became an elite scorer playing off Clark, and the Fever cannot afford to lose her with zero return.

New president Kelly Krauskopf went on the Locked On Women’s Basketball podcast where she discussed all things Fever. In the episode, she let fans know the team’s plans for Mitchell’s free agency.

Fever plan to core Kelsey Mitchell ahead of her free agency

Mitchell told her story to The Player Tribune and talked about exploring free agency, but the Fever have zero plans of letting her get there. Krauskopf said this on the podcast.

“She’s our number one priority. We do have the opportunity to core her, and it would be sort of irresponsible of me if we didn’t utilize that opportunity.”

Making someone a core player in the WNBA means getting exclusive negotiating rights on their next contract. It is virtually a team option in the NBA for a one-year max contract. Making Mitchell a core player ensures she returns to Indiana or the Fever get something in return for her if she wants to leave. A trade is still on the table, but the franchise would hold the cards.

Fans have been worrying about Mitchell’s future since the season ended. The two-time All-Star is currently playing in China but has become a crucial piece to Indiana’s success. Kelly Krauskopf made it clear that Fever want her back for the 2025 season and will core her. Mitchell can still explore her options and request a trade if she wishes, but the most likely scenario is the franchise running it back with some upgrades around their three stars.

Indiana Fever fans can rest a bit easier after Krauskopf dropped the news. She wants to maximize their window and build a title contender as soon as possible. Keeping Kelsey Mitchell is a crucial piece of the plan. Expect the Fever to do whatever possible and to add some pieces. The best is still yet to come in the Caitlin Clark era and supporters should be excited.