As the second half of the 2024 WNBA season approaches, ESPN’s Kevin Pelton has proposed a trade that could significantly impact the Indiana Fever and their standout rookie, Caitlin Clark. With the league set to resume following the Olympic break, teams are evaluating their rosters and considering moves to strengthen their lineups for the final stretch of the season.

Pelton’s proposed trade involves the Indiana Fever sending Katie Lou Samuelson, NaLyssa Smith, and a 2026 first-round pick to the Washington Mystics. In return, the Fever would receive Brittney Sykes, Myisha Hines-Allen, and a 2026 second-round pick from Washington. This trade could potentially provide the Fever with the boost they need to support Clark as she continues to adapt to the demands of the WNBA.

Both Samuelson and Smith have been solid contributors for Indiana this season. Samuelson, known for her three-point shooting, has averaged 5.4 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Smith, a force in the paint, has averaged 11.6 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. Despite their contributions, the proposed trade offers Indiana an opportunity to add a new dimension to their roster.

Brittney Sykes, one of the league’s top perimeter defenders, has averaged 1.3 steals per game over her eight-year career. Her defensive prowess would alleviate some of the pressure on Clark, allowing the rookie to focus more on her offensive game. Additionally, Sykes is a reliable scorer, averaging 11.3 points and 5.0 rebounds per game this season. Her veteran presence and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor would be invaluable to the Fever.

Myisha Hines-Allen, another key component of the proposed trade, has been a consistent performer for the Mystics, averaging 8.0 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. As a versatile forward, Hines-Allen would be able to fill the roles left by Samuelson and Smith, bringing a balanced inside-outside game to Indiana. Her impressive shooting percentages—42.4% from three-point range and 50.3% from the field—make her a valuable asset for the Fever’s offense.

While the trade would involve the removal of Smith from the starting lineup, the combined defensive skills of Sykes and the versatility of Hines-Allen could provide the support Clark needs to thrive. The proposed deal would not only enhance the Fever’s defense but also give Clark the opportunity to rest more, knowing her team has capable two-way players on the floor.

With the WNBA trade deadline fast approaching on August 20, the Indiana Fever have a few days to consider whether this trade could be the key to elevating their season and providing Clark with the best possible environment to continue her impressive rookie campaign.