WNBA Legend Sue Bird Names Caitlin Clark’s Biggest Issue

Bird pointed out that Clark is often tasked with creating her own shot on nearly every possession.

“It’d be really beneficial for her if she had players around her who could create shots for her,” Bird said. “She has to create a lot of her own shots, but she’s also creating for her teammates—that’s where Aari McDonald might have some impact.”

Clark is averaging 18.2 points per game in her second WNBA season but is shooting just 39% from the field. Her three-point percentage has dipped to 29.5%, which is well below her college numbers and early pro expectations.

The Fever are hoping that the recent addition of guard Aari McDonald will help ease some of that burden. McDonald had six assists in her second game back with Indiana. At 26, she brings experience, playmaking ability and the speed to create better looks for Clark and others.

Clark continues to be one of the league’s top playmakers, averaging 8.9 assists per game. No other Fever player is averaging more than four. Aliyah Boston is next at 3.6 assists per game, followed by McDonald at 3.2.

As Clark gets healthier and McDonald finds her rhythm, Indiana may finally have the supporting backcourt pieces to help Clark maximize her scoring efficiency and get the Fever closer to a postseason push.