In an intriguing twist to the Indiana Fever's offseason narrative, NaLyssa Smith appears poised to request a trade, signaling discontent with her role under coach Christie Sides. This development follows a subtle yet telling modification to Smith's Instagram bio, which no longer specifies the Fever as her team but simply references the WNBA.
The 24-year-old forward, who has one year remaining on her contract with the Fever, has expressed frustration over her sporadic success during the 2024 season. Despite averaging 10.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game and ranking fourth in team scoring, Smith's contributions have been inconsistent, highlighted by performances ranging from high-scoring 21-point games to lesser five-point outings.
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The situation escalated when Smith's playing time significantly decreased towards the season's end, culminating in a mere 13 minutes of play across two playoff games. This minimal usage seemed to be the last straw for Smith, who had already voiced dissatisfaction with her diminished role as early as May. The playoff sidelining only intensified these grievances.
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Adding fuel to the fire, DiJonai Carrington—Smith's girlfriend—publicly called for the Fever to "free" Smith following their playoff exit at the hands of the Connecticut Sun. The change in Smith’s social media profile further underscores her desire for a new beginning away from Indiana.
As it stands, several outcomes are possible concerning Smith's future with the Fever. She could be traded if both parties agree or remain on the roster against her wishes if no trade materializes. Alternatively, she might sit out next season while still under contract or find herself selected by another team in an expansion draft.
With free agency on the horizon at the end of next season and ongoing tensions between Smith and team management, this saga promises more developments as all involved navigate this complex contractual dispute.
What are your thoughts on NaLyssa Smith's situation with the Indiana Fever? Do you think a trade would benefit both her and the team, or could there be a resolution that keeps her in Indiana?
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Let her go where she wants. The team that gets her will quickly realize
the difference in a team player and an individual. Indiana did not suffer from her absence.