Caitlin Clark has missed her last two games due to a lingering groin injury, but her return to action is anticipated soon. Fans across the country are eager to see her back on the court as the Indiana Fever aim to gain momentum this season, focusing on addressing the Caitlin Clark shot creation challenge that has affected her scoring efficiency.
Sue Bird Analyzes Clark’s Shot Creation Responsibilities
Clark last appeared in a game on June 24 in Seattle, where the Fever secured a 94-86 win. Despite the victory, Clark struggled, scoring only six points on 3-of-13 shooting in front of a full arena. WNBA legend Sue Bird, speaking on her podcast ‘Bird’s Eye View,’ commented on that game after watching it in person, identifying Clark’s biggest hurdle right now.
Bird highlighted that Clark often has to generate her own shooting opportunities on nearly every possession, which places significant pressure on her amid a demanding schedule.
It’d be really beneficial for her if she had players around her who could create shots for her,
Bird explained.
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.
—Sue Bird, WNBA Legend
Statistical Snapshot of Clark’s Current Performance
In her second WNBA season, Clark is averaging 18.2 points per game but is struggling with shooting accuracy, currently converting only 39% from the field. Her three-point shooting percentage has dropped to 29.5%, well below her college performance and early professional expectations.
The Fever have recently added guard Aari McDonald, hoping her inclusion will lessen Clark’s on-court burden. With six assists recorded in her second game back for Indiana, McDonald brings valuable experience, playmaking skills, and quickness that could create better scoring opportunities for Clark and the team.
Supporting Cast Aims to Boost Clark’s Efficiency
Clark remains one of the league’s premier playmakers, averaging 8.9 assists per game. No other Fever player comes close, with Aliyah Boston averaging 3.6 assists and McDonald at 3.2. This dynamic suggests the team still depends heavily on Clark both to score and to facilitate teammates.
As Clark recovers and McDonald integrates further into the lineup, the Fever could finally develop a balanced backcourt. This improved support system may help Clark overcome her shot creation challenge, increasing her scoring efficiency and strengthening Indiana’s chances as they pursue a postseason berth.