Indiana Fever fans are speculating about the future of star players with many believing that both might be on their way out. Kelsey Mitchell, a two-time All-Star, is currently a free agent and could potentially leave the team if she does not accept the contract extension offered by the Fever. The uncertainty surrounding her future has generated significant buzz. However, Mitchell is not the only player in the spotlight, as rumors about NaLyssa Smith’s potential departure have also emerged following a controversial moment after Indiana’s playoff exit against the Connecticut Sun.
Smith, a 6-foot-4 forward, sparked speculation by removing any mention of the Fever from her social media bio and posting an end-of-season message that many fans interpreted as a farewell. Further adding to the rumors, Smith appeared in a video posted by the Fever on Sunday, where she reflected on her 2024 season.
The video quickly went viral, garnering over 325,000 views within 12 hours on X (formerly Twitter), with fans convinced it indicated her time with the team might be coming to an end.
Indiana Fever fans took to social media to express their opinions, many of them believing that Smith will be traded. Comments ranged from “Time to trade Smith to the Sun” to “Good luck elsewhere” and “Unfortunately it will be with another team.” Some fans, who had previously supported Smith, expressed regret and frustration over her fit with the team, with one fan saying, “Good player but not for this style of play.”
A significant factor in the controversy involves Smith’s partner, DiJonai Carrington, who plays for the Connecticut Sun—the same team that eliminated the Fever from the playoffs. Carrington was involved in a controversy during the series when she accidentally poked Caitlin Clark in the eye. Some fans linked Smith’s potential departure to this connection, with one fan criticizing the impact of Smith’s personal life on her professional performance.
NaLyssa Smith, who averaged 10.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game in 2024, still has one season remaining on her contract before becoming a free agent in 2026. Whether the fan speculation and controversy will influence her future with the Fever remains to be seen, but it’s clear that many fans believe a trade is on the horizon.
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