The Fever Sign Aari McDonald: How Can She Help as a Temporary Point Guard?

June 3, 2025 

The Indiana Fever have signed guard Aari McDonald to a short-term contract, providing immediate reinforcement at the point guard position amid roster adjustments and injury challenges. McDonald, known for her explosive speed, defensive tenacity, and energy off the bench, brings both experience and versatility to a Fever team in transition.

But how exactly can she help?

A Need for Depth and Defense

With Erica Wheeler out due to injury and Kelsey Mitchell carrying an increased offensive load, the Fever needed a reliable, playmaking guard to stabilize their second unit — and McDonald fits the bill.

A former No. 3 overall pick in the 2021 WNBA Draft, McDonald most recently played for the Atlanta Dream, where she developed a reputation as a high-motor defender and effective secondary ball-handler. In her WNBA career so far, she’s averaged:

6.5 points per game
2.3 assists
1.0 steals
41% shooting from the field

While those numbers may not leap off the page, they reflect a player capable of stepping into a rotation role and providing meaningful minutes — especially when asked to push pace or disrupt opponents defensively.

Fit With the Current Roster

McDonald brings something the Fever have lacked at times this season: speed in transition and on-ball defense. While Caitlin Clark handles primary playmaking duties, McDonald can provide relief minutes, help initiate offense when Clark rests, and apply ball pressure on opposing guards — something crucial as Indiana continues to struggle on the defensive end.

Her ability to attack the paint and draw defenders could also open up perimeter looks for shooters like NaLyssa Smith or Aliyah Boston, giving the offense more dynamism in second units.

Short-Term Contract, Long-Term Opportunity?

Though her deal is temporary, this could be a key moment for McDonald. The WNBA’s limited roster spots and tight salary cap often mean talented players hover on the fringe. If she performs well, McDonald could earn a longer-term role with the Fever — or draw attention from other teams needing a guard with her skill set.

Head Coach Christie Sides has emphasized the importance of “energy, toughness, and focus” from her bench. McDonald offers all three.

Final Thoughts

Signing Aari McDonald may seem like a small move, but it could pay off big for Indiana. With her tenacity, quickness, and experience, she provides depth and flexibility exactly when the Fever need it most.

In a season focused on growth and chemistry, a steady presence like McDonald — even temporarily — could be just what the team needs to stay competitive and protect its young core.