The Connecticut Sun defeated the Indiana Fever 93-69 in the first game of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs. With Indiana now on the brink of elimination, one has to wonder if the Fever can bounce back in the series. ESPN analyst Monica McNutt is confident that Caitlin Clark, who scored only 11 points in Game 1, will get back on track in Game 2, via espnW.
"Caitlin has a track record of when she has low-scoring games, which we haven't seen many of, she bounces back with +25 point performances," McNutt said.
The Fever unquestionably need Clark to play well in Game 2. She struggled with her shot throughout the game on Sunday, shooting 4-17 from the field and 2-13 from beyond the arc. It was Clark's first WNBA playoff game in a contest against a Sun team that features a talented defense, so there was an immense challenge. Perhaps she will feel more comfortable heading into Game 2.
However, the Sun still have a good defense. Connecticut also knows how to defend the Fever rookie. Their strategy clearly worked in the first game of the series. The Fever are a contender and could make a deep playoff run, but overcoming the Sun will prove to be quite difficult.
Winning Game 2 could lead to series win for Fever
Almost every Fever home game has felt like a playoff atmosphere during the 2024 season. Fans were nothing short of ecstatic to watch the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft play for their team. Clark has lived up to expectations while drawing plenty of fans.
If the Fever can upset the Sun in Game 2 and force a Game 3, Indiana will have a legitimate opportunity to win the series. Playing in front of their home fans would provide a crucial advantage. The Fever fanbase will be more than prepared for Game 3. Of course, the Fever still need to win Game 2 on the road.
Defense is important, but the Fever have leaned on their offensive attack all season long. Indiana's defense has struggled at times, but they have been able to rely on offense to win games. In Game 1, though, the Fever were not able to find a consistent rhythm on the offensive end of the floor. If they are going to win Game 2, it will likely be a high-scoring shootout of sorts.
Game 2 is scheduled for 7:30 PM EST on Wednesday night.