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Sep 25, 2024; Uncasville, Connecticut, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) talks to Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell (0) during the first half during game two of the first round of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs at Mohegan Sun Arena. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images
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via Imago
Sep 25, 2024; Uncasville, Connecticut, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) talks to Indiana Fever guard Kelsey Mitchell (0) during the first half during game two of the first round of the 2024 WNBA Playoffs at Mohegan Sun Arena. Mandatory Credit: Paul Rutherford-Imagn Images
With trades flying fast, the Fever are stirring the pot once again. By buying out a $106,419 player, Indiana has freed up cap space and set the stage for a big move—one that even a four-time WNBA champion franchise is keeping a close eye on. As the Fever’s former forward gears up for her next chapter, the dominoes are falling. The burning question now: where will she land next?
According to a recent post on X by Darren Wolfson, a sports reporter, and @SkorNorth contributor, “Count the Lynx among teams interested in Samuelson. #LosLynx.”
The Minnesota Lynx, a franchise with championship pedigree, has emerged as a potential destination for the 6’3” forward. The fit would make sense—Minnesota has embraced a mix of youth and experience, and Samuelson, with her ability to stretch the floor, could provide depth in a competitive Western Conference.
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But with Katie Samuelson on waivers for five days, any team could technically claim her—though that would mean taking on her full $180,000 contract for 2025.
Count the Lynx among teams interested in Samuelson. #LosLynx https://t.co/BtDTVaZ6Lq
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) February 10, 2025
More realistically, she’ll clear waivers and enter free agency, where teams like the Lynx can sign her for as low as the veteran minimum of $78,831. Ironically, Indiana could end up paying her more next season than the team she eventually joins.
Samuelson’s career has been a story of resilience. The former UConn star has played 138 WNBA games, starting in 72, and averaging 5.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in 20.1 minutes per game. Her 38.9% field goal percentage and 33.6% three-point shooting make her a valuable floor spacer.
But her career has also been defined by movement—Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Seattle, and Indiana. Now, she’s on the verge of another change, and the Lynx may see an opportunity to integrate her sharpshooting and versatility into their system.
Fever’s roster flexibility and key decisions awaiting as Samuelson’s market heats up
For the Fever, this move is about flexibility. With two open roster spots and around $117,000 in cap space, Indiana faces tough decisions. The math is simple but restrictive: the minimum salary for players with 0-2 years of experience is about $66,000, meaning the Fever would need at least $132,000 to sign two players. Unless another move is made, Indiana may enter the season with just 11 players. Alternatively, the Fever could hold off on signings until midseason when prorated contracts become more affordable.
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Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) looks to shoot the ball while being guarded by Indiana Fever forward Katie Lou Samuelson (33) on Sunday June 16, 2024, during the game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The Fever beat the Sky 91-83.
For now, the Fever are reshaping their roster with big names like DeWanna Bonner, Natasha Howard, and Sophie Cunningham. With Caitlin Clark adding a fresh dynamic to the backcourt and veterans like Bonner and Howard boosting the frontcourt, Indiana is setting its sights on a new strategy. As Clark puts it, “Going to push all of us to get better.”
For now, all eyes are on the waiver wire and the free-agent market. Samuelson has been here before—betting on herself, adjusting to a new team, proving her worth. If Minnesota or another contender sees the value in her skill set, she may have a chance to carve out a meaningful role. And if the past is any indication, she’ll be ready.
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The question is: will the Lynx—or another team—make their move before the final buzzer sounds?
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Debate
Will Katie Samuelson's next team unlock her full potential, or is she destined to keep moving?
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Will Katie Samuelson's next team unlock her full potential, or is she destined to keep moving?
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