The Indiana Fever are preparing to face the Minnesota Lynx in the Commissioner’s Cup final on Tuesday in Minneapolis. However, the Fever could be without their star playmaker, Caitlin Clark, who remains sidelined due to a groin injury. With Clark’s participation uncertain, guard Aari McDonald has emerged as a possible starter after rejoining the Fever roster last Wednesday.

McDonald had previously appeared in three games for Indiana before being waived mid-season. She returned on a rest-of-the-season contract following the departure of DeWanna Bonner and has since contributed significantly in recent matchups against the Los Angeles Sparks and the Dallas Wings.

Reasons supporting Aari McDonald’s inclusion in the starting lineup

Aari McDonald’s familiarity with the Indiana Fever backcourt is a major advantage. During Clark’s five-game absence earlier this season, McDonald played alongside key teammates such as Lexie Hull and Kelsey Mitchell, helping her maintain chemistry within the team. This existing rapport allows the Fever to sustain their playing style without disruption in a critical game.

Since her return, McDonald has demonstrated her scoring ability by putting up 13 points against the Wings and 14 points versus the Sparks. Her seamless reintegration and strong connection with other Fever guards could provide valuable offensive stability if Clark is sidelined for the final.

McDonald’s offensive skills and playmaking capabilities

Beyond fitting into the lineup, McDonald offers the dual threat of scoring and playmaking. She is adept at quickly transitioning the ball and can initiate offensive sets independently, relieving pressure from teammates. For example, in the recent game against Dallas, McDonald tallied six assists, second only to Kelsey Mitchell on the team.

Her shooting efficiency also stands out. McDonald shot an impressive 66.7% in the Dallas game and holds a 51.4% field goal percentage across her last three games. In comparison, Clark has been struggling with shots lately, averaging just 26.5% over the same span. While McDonald is not a deep three-point shooter like Clark, her ability to score efficiently, particularly by attacking the basket, makes her an important scoring option.

Defensive strengths that boost Indiana’s lineup

In addition to her offensive contributions, McDonald brings notable defensive intensity. She excels as an on-ball defender with quick footwork and high energy, assets that will be crucial facing talented ball handlers like Courtney Williams and Kayla McBride. Her skills as a perimeter defender could disrupt the Lynx’s rhythm early in the game and help Indiana control the pace.

Kelsey Mitchell praised McDonald’s impact following their win over the Wings, calling her “great on both ends” and an “unbelievable” pickup for the Fever. This defensive tenacity combined with her ability to contribute offensively suggests McDonald’s presence in the starting lineup would be significant for Indiana’s championship hopes.

The potential impact on Indiana’s championship pursuit

If Caitlin Clark is unable to play, starting Aari McDonald would not only maintain the Fever’s backcourt chemistry but also provide a balanced threat on both ends of the court. Her scoring efficiency, playmaking independence, and defensive reliability could be pivotal in a high-stakes game against the Minnesota Lynx. With the team relying on McDonald’s experience and energy, Indiana can remain optimistic about their chances of capturing the Commissioner’s Cup title despite Clark’s absence.