Indiana Fever waiving Hall of Fame veteran could ultimately improve championship odds

The Fever are reportedly waiving DeWanna Bonner after she requested a trade, and re-signing Aari McDonald.

The Indiana Fever are waiving DeWanna Bonner, Chloe Peterson of the IndyStar reported Wednesday morning. In turn, they will sign Aari McDonald for a rest-of-year contract on a veteran minimum.

Bonner has missed the last five games due to personal reasons, and Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports reported she had no interest in returning to the Fever:

“Multiple sources told Front Office Sports that the fit in Indiana was “off” from the beginning. Bonner—who was signed to be an anchor with championship experience for the team’s young core—was expected to be a starter.”

Bonner struggled in her 17th season, averaging 7.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 9 games. She started the first three games of the season, but was relegated to the bench in favor of Lexie Hull. Bonner has shot a career-worst 34.5% from the field this season.

When Bonner signed as a free agent with the Fever, she was viewed by many as a critical piece of a championship roster. Bonner, after all, is the WNBA’s third all-time leading scorer, and was fresh off her sixth All-Star appearance.

Aari McDonald will immediately elevate the Fever roster

McDonald, who was drafted third overall in 2021, was immediately a great fit in Indiana when she signed a hardship contract

In three games, she averaged 11 points and 3 assists, shooting 42.9% from the field and 37.5% from three. The Fever had to waive McDonald after they once again reached 10 healthy players, but are now able to re-sign her.

While Bonner’s brief Fever tenure undoubtedly ends in disappointment, given her struggles — and the team’s breadth of wings — adding McDonald to the roster ultimately boosts the team’s championship odds.

Lexie Hull is in the midst of a career year, averaging 9.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game — all career-highs. Her 48.5% from the field and 55.3% from three also both mark career bests.

The Fever are 7-7 to begin the season, good for 7th overall in the WNBA. Caitlin Clark missed five games due to a quad strain earlier this month.