Indiana Fever Lose First Game Without Injured Caitlin Clark Against Mystics

The Indiana Fever struggled offensively in their first game without Caitlin Clark, losing 83-77 to the Washington Mystics and highlighting their heavy reliance on Clark's playmaking and transition abilities. The Fever failed to score any fastbreak points—an anomaly for a team that previously ranked among the league's best in that category—underscoring Clark’s impact. Kelsey Mitchell and DeWanna Bonner tried to fill the void, but star forward Aliyah Boston had a subdued performance, attempting only five shots after a standout showing in the previous game. Mystics coach Sydney Johnson praised the Fever's talent and warned that the team remains a threat even in Clark's absence, while noting their fast-paced style and tough defense. Clark is expected to miss at least two more weeks with a left quad injury, during which the Fever must find ways to improve ball movement and offensive execution to avoid losing ground early in the season. The situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for other Fever stars to step up and keep the team's playoff hopes alive.