Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark‘s quad injury is expected to sideline her for approximately four games in the WNBA’s newly expanded 44-game schedule. While the injury is regarded as minor, it has significantly affected how bettors view her chances for the 2025 WNBA MVP award. Clark had rapidly overtaken early favorite A’ja Wilson to become the top candidate for MVP in only her second professional season, but those odds have now dramatically shifted.
Recent Fluctuations in MVP Favorites
Just a few days ago, Clark was favored at nearly even money, posted at minus-110 on Bet MGM, with Minnesota Lynx’s Napheesa Collier trailing as the second choice at plus-275. Earlier in the season, Clark’s odds began at minus-195, while Collier was listed around plus-250. However, the announcement of Clark’s injury on Monday led to an immediate recalibration in betting lines. Clark’s odds dropped to plus-250, while Collier surged into the lead as a minus-175 favorite.
Shifts on Other Betting Platforms
Similar changes occurred on ESPN Bet, where Collier moved to the front, listed at minus-135, with Clark falling to the second position at plus-210. The injury news was confirmed by ESPN Bet, which stated,
“The Indiana Fever announced on Monday that top-scorer Caitlin Clark will miss at least two weeks with a quad strain.”
The platform added,
“Clark, averaging 19.0 points and a league-high 9.3 assists, was previously the favorite to win WNBA MVP at -115. With the announcement of Clark’s injury, Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier has moved into favorite status.”
—ESPN Bet
Napheesa Collier’s Rising Presence Amid Team Success
Even without Clark’s current injury, many expected Collier to eventually claim the MVP favorite title if she maintained her impressive form. The Lynx boast an undefeated 4-0 record so far this season, with Collier averaging an outstanding 29.5 points and 7.3 rebounds per game. Her shooting percentages are remarkable, converting 56.2% of her attempts and an efficient 53.8% from beyond the arc. Her dominant performance underpins her ascension as the leading MVP contender.
Implications for the WNBA MVP Race Moving Forward
The sudden alteration in Caitlin Clark’s WNBA MVP odds after the injury announcement illustrates how even short-term absences can have an outsized influence on public and betting perceptions. With Collier now favored, the MVP race is wide open, highlighting the competitive balance in the league’s sophomore season. As Clark aims to return swiftly and maintain her high level of play, both players will remain central figures to watch as the WNBA season progresses.