Indiana Fever center Aliyah Boston has called for All-Star guard Kelsey Mitchell to be seriously considered for MVP, highlighting her critical role during the team’s current injury challenges. With star point guard Caitlin Clark sidelined by a groin injury and other key players such as Aari McDonald and Syd Colson out for the season, Mitchell has stepped up to lead the Fever.
During a recent episode of Post Moves, Boston, alongside host Candace Parker, discussed why Mitchell deserves recognition in the MVP debate this year.
Boston praises Mitchell’s impact on the Fever’s success
Aliyah Boston emphasized Mitchell’s dedication and consistent work ethic, saying her contributions to the team are impossible to overlook. She underscored both Mitchell’s impressive statistics and her overall value to the squad.
“I think her focus and just all the work that she’s continued to put in, … definitely she needs to be in those (MVP) conversations because when you think about it, her importance to the squad, the numbers she’s putting up, it’s undeniable,” Boston said.
Boston also noted Mitchell’s improving playmaking skills, stressing how defenses are intent on limiting her scoring yet she continues to find open teammates effectively.
“What’s also standing out too is Kelsey’s assist numbers are also going up,” Boston said. “When you look at it, she’s passing that ball. Why? Because all the teams are like, ‘Okay, we got to get the ball out of her hands,’ and she’s doing a great job of finding everyone.
“So it’s like you got to pick your poison (as) Kelsey’s scoring that ball at such a high level.”
Mitchell’s performance without Caitlin Clark
In 20 games played without Caitlin Clark this season, Mitchell has averaged 20.6 points, 3.8 assists, and 2.1 rebounds, all of which are slightly higher than her season stats of 20.0 points, 3.2 assists, and 2.0 rebounds per game. Mitchell has clearly carried much of the offensive burden as the Fever strive to remain competitive despite missing key players.
Her strong showings have drawn attention from WNBA legends such as Dawn Staley and Fever great Tamika Catchings, both of whom have publicly named Mitchell as a legitimate MVP candidate.
Current MVP landscape and Mitchell’s standing
Though Mitchell has been essential for Indiana, the Fever’s 18-15 record places them sixth in the standings, which limits her status among the top MVP contenders. Leading candidates come from teams with higher seeds, including Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx, Alyssa Thomas of the Phoenix Mercury, and A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces, who hold the best odds.
According to ESPN Bet, Mitchell carries +6600 odds to win the WNBA Finals MVP, while teammate Caitlin Clark is listed at +1500. This reflects how Mitchell’s role remains influential even in postseason projections.
Why Mitchell’s MVP case is garnering attention
Mitchell’s ability to maintain high scoring output while increasing her playmaking under pressure defines her growing importance. Boston’s commendation highlights not only Mitchell’s individual skills but also her leadership amid the Fever’s roster challenges. As the team continues its campaign, Mitchell’s performance could significantly impact Indiana’s playoff positioning and overall success.
The MVP discussion around Kelsey Mitchell illustrates the nuanced considerations beyond team records, focusing on resilience and adaptability during difficult stretches. If the Fever sustain their competitiveness in the coming games, the call for Mitchell’s inclusion in MVP talks may gain even more momentum.