With the 2024 WNBA season ending, the buzz around mock drafts is in full swing, and the Indiana Fever is at the forefront of discussions. Fans and analysts are speculating about the Fever’s strategy, potential signings, and how they can address their needs. The draft could be a pivotal moment for the team, as they balance between finding talent that can provide immediate impact and looking for future stars.

As we dive into the Fever’s options, it’s clear they have multiple directions they can go. From defense and depth to the possibility of trading for an experienced player, the Fever’s decision will play a critical role in shaping their future. First-time in a while, they need to exercise patience during draft night, carefully evaluating their long-term needs.

Janiah Barker: The Power Forward Option

Janiah Barker, a standout at UCLA, has gained attention as a potential target for Indiana. She’s a well-rounded player with notable shooting ability, and many argue that she’s an upgrade over the Fever’s current options at power forward, including Nelissa Smith. Barker’s versatility, particularly as a shooter, is what separates her from Smith, but there are doubts whether she will be a better fit for the team in the long term. While Barker is solid, Indiana might need someone who can make a more immediate impact.

Aneesah Morrow: A Strong Contender

Another intriguing option is Aneesah Morrow, who brings a lot to the table despite her shooting struggles. She’s a versatile defender, strong in the mid-range, and an elite rebounder on both ends of the court. If she’s available, Indiana could find themselves solving several of their defensive problems by drafting her. However, Morrow’s draft stock is unpredictable. While she has potential, her lack of shooting consistency might cause her to drop into the second round. If she were to improve in that area, she could easily be a top-five pick.

Maddie Westbelt and Sonia Citron: Two More Names to Watch

Maddie Westbelt is another name circulating among draft boards. She brings size and presence in the paint but has dealt with injury concerns. Her limitations make her a less likely candidate than some of the other options.

Sonia Citron, on the other hand, appears to be a perfect fit for Indiana. Citron is a lights-out shooter and a solid defender, making her one of the top prospects for the Fever. Her size and skill set would allow her to slot into the power forward position seamlessly. In today’s WNBA, having a stretch-four who can shoot and defend is a must, and Citron checks all those boxes. Not only can she play off Aaliyah Boston at center, but she could also make up for the deficiencies in other areas of Indiana’s roster.

The Caitlin Clark Factor

Drafting Sonia Citron could also complement Caitlin Clark’s game, should Indiana look her way in the future. Both players have a history of success at the international level, with Citron being part of the same USA team that featured Clark. While Clark is the headline name, Citron’s contributions to that team were almost equal, and her ability to impact both ends of the floor makes her a strong candidate for Indiana.

Citron’s versatility and youth (born in 2003) make her an attractive prospect. She’s proven herself to be a difference-maker, and at just 20 years old, she could develop into a cornerstone for the Fever alongside Boston.

Trade for Experience or Stay Patient?

While the Fever have several solid options in the draft, there’s also the possibility of trading for an experienced player, such as Dallas Wings’ Satou Sabally. However, making such a trade would come with significant risk, especially with the value of draft picks increasing as the WNBA prepares for a major talent influx in 2026. Trading for a player like Sabally might require Indiana to give up critical assets, including future first-round picks, which could set them back in the long run.

With Sabally’s current contract situation, Indiana would also face stiff competition from other teams, particularly the New York Liberty, who have more assets and could be a more appealing destination for Sabally. The Liberty have a higher draft pick and more flexibility, making them a likely contender in the race for Sabally if she becomes available.

Conclusion: Sonia Citron is the Best Bet

All things considered, the Fever’s smartest move in the draft would be selecting Sonia Citron if she’s available. Her shooting, defense, and overall basketball IQ align with the modern game and what the Fever need. While there are other enticing options like Aneesah Morrow or even the possibility of a trade, Citron seems like the best fit for Indiana’s long-term success.