As the Indiana Fever continue to navigate a challenging start to their season, fueled by close losses and mounting injuries, some fans have begun to question how concerned they should be, especially with Caitlin Clark sidelined. But according to Hall of Famer and longtime ESPN analyst Rebecca Lobo, the answer is simple: don’t panic.
In a recent appearance on SportsCenter with Elle Duncan, Lobo addressed the growing frustration surrounding the Fever’s 0–3 stretch since May 24. While the segment aired before guards Sydney Colson and Sophie Cunningham suffered injuries in Saturday’s loss to the Connecticut Sun, Lobo reaffirmed her comments in a follow-up post on X.
“They should not be worried at all,” Lobo said. “Two of the three games they lost with Caitlin Clark were by a combined three points.”
Built Around Caitlin Clark — and Still Learning Without Her
Lobo pointed out what’s become increasingly evident over the past week: this is a roster still trying to find its footing without the player it was built around. Clark, who has been ruled out with a left quad strain, was averaging 19.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and a league-leading 9.3 assists per game before the injury.
“This is a team that’s built around what Caitlin Clark does so well,” Lobo said. “When she’s not playing, that’s going to look different.”
Since Clark’s absence, the Fever have struggled to close games and create easy offense. But Lobo emphasized that the lack of cohesion isn’t surprising given how new the core is, not just to each other, but to life without Clark on the floor.
“The players are learning how to play — not only with one another, but also without Caitlin Clark.”
Indiana Fever Silver Linings in a Slow Start
Despite the team’s current record, Lobo pointed out signs of progress and individual growth. She referenced DeWanna Bonner’s 21-point game against the Mystics and other flashes of development from Indiana’s supporting cast as reasons to stay optimistic.
“I think they’re going to find themselves,” Lobo said. “And in some ways this could help some of the supplemental pieces grow a little bit in Caitlin Clark’s absence.”
Lobo’s measured approach offers a reset for a fan base that is understandably eager for results. The Fever entered the season with championship expectations, and early stumbles, particularly without Clark, are more reflective of circumstance than failure.
Aari McDonald’s Arrival and Sydney Colson’s Return Add Needed Stability
As Indiana continues to tread water, the Fever front office has made moves to keep the rotation intact. Aari McDonald was signed to a hardship exception contract and is expected to contribute immediately. Head coach Stephanie White praised McDonald’s energy and her ability to absorb the playbook quickly.
“She is a true point guard, so she brings that energy, she brings the ability to dictate,” White said. “And she has been really good so far.”
Meanwhile, Sydney Colson has been cleared to return and is off the injury report ahead of Indiana’s June 3 game against the Washington Mystics. Sophie Cunningham remains out with a re-aggravated ankle injury, but the team is hopeful she will rejoin the rotation soon.
The Fever still have work to do — and Clark’s eventual return will be the most significant boost — but Lobo’s perspective adds welcome clarity: early-season growing pains don’t define a season, especially for a group still building its chemistry.
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