Silver Lining in Disappointing Loss: Natasha Howard’s Performance Offers Hope for Indiana Fever’s Frontcourt
The Indiana Fever suffered a tough loss recently at the hands of the Atlanta Dream, one that highlighted ongoing struggles for the team, particularly in physicality and execution. Despite the disappointing outcome, one major positive emerged in the form of veteran forward Natasha Howard. Her impressive performance served as a beacon of optimism for a team still searching for rhythm and consistency amid a challenging WNBA season.
Natasha Howard’s Role and Background
Natasha Howard was acquired by the Indiana Fever during the offseason as part of a strategic effort to strengthen the roster with proven veterans. The Fever brought her in with high expectations, not only due to her individual talents but also her championship experience and her ability to complement rising star Aliyah Boston in the frontcourt.
Howard, known for her versatility and hustle on both ends of the court, was expected to bring balance, leadership, and production to an evolving Indiana squad. Prior to joining the Fever, Howard had stints with teams like the Seattle Storm and Dallas Wings, where she showcased her all-around skills and high basketball IQ. When healthy, she had demonstrated the ability to contribute significantly on offense and defense, making her a valuable addition to any team aiming for playoff success.
Season Performance So Far
Entering the most recent game, Howard was putting up solid—though not standout—numbers, averaging 11.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and one steal per game in just under 25 minutes of play. While these statistics are respectable, they likely fall short of what Indiana’s coaching staff and front office envisioned when they made the decision to bring her on board.
It’s important to understand that these numbers don’t tell the whole story. Howard’s impact often goes beyond the box score—defensive switches, timely screens, help defense, and veteran communication are all areas in which she contributes. Still, in a league that places a premium on productivity, there’s always a desire for higher statistical output, particularly from a player with championship credentials.
Standout Performance vs. Atlanta
In the recent matchup against Atlanta, Howard finally delivered the kind of performance the Fever had been hoping for. Despite the lopsided loss, she emerged as the best player on the floor for Indiana, finishing with a double-double: 15 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, and one steal.
This game marked her first double-double of the season, and interestingly, her previous high-impact performance also came against the Dream earlier in the year when she poured in 26 points. That game had resulted in a Fever victory, showing that when Howard is fully engaged and efficient, she can swing the outcome of a game.
Even though Atlanta controlled the pace and tempo throughout the latest matchup, Howard’s intensity and execution stood out. Her activity on the boards was especially crucial. It allowed Indiana to keep possessions alive and offered a glimpse of how the frontcourt can thrive when she shares the load with Boston.
Frontcourt Chemistry: A Developing Asset
One of the major concerns for the Fever has been ensuring that Aliyah Boston, last year’s Rookie of the Year, doesn’t get overwhelmed. Boston is frequently tasked with defending opposing bigs, anchoring the defense, and carrying a significant offensive burden. In a league where elite bigs like Brittney Griner and Breanna Stewart patrol the paint, that’s a tall order.
Against Atlanta, which boasts a strong frontcourt featuring players like Bri Jones and Griner, Howard’s presence was especially impactful. Her ability to rebound, protect the rim, and contribute offensively provided much-needed support for Boston. When both forwards are clicking, Indiana becomes much harder to defend and more balanced on the court.
If Howard can continue playing at this level, it will greatly alleviate the pressure on Boston and create more spacing and scoring opportunities for the guards. It also bodes well for Indiana’s chances of improving its defensive rebounding and paint protection—two areas that have been inconsistent so far this season.
Looking Ahead: Caitlin Clark’s Return and Team Outlook
There’s speculation that Caitlin Clark, the Fever’s rookie sensation and No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, may return as early as this Saturday for a crucial rematch against the New York Liberty. Clark, who has already made a significant impact in her short time in the league, brings elite playmaking, shooting, and star power.
Should Clark return to a starting lineup that includes a confident Natasha Howard and a steady Kelsey Mitchell, Indiana’s offense could receive a major boost. The floor spacing improves drastically when Clark is present, and having Howard clicking in the frontcourt means defenses won’t be able to key in on Boston or Mitchell as much.
A revitalized lineup with Clark, Howard, Boston, and Mitchell could be exactly what the Fever need to climb back up the standings. Currently, the team has slipped to the 7th seed in the playoff picture, but there’s still ample time left in the regular season to turn things around.
Big Picture: What One Game Can Mean
While it’s easy to dismiss individual performances in losses, Howard’s night against Atlanta deserves more recognition. For a team that’s still learning how to win consistently, these small victories—whether moral, statistical, or emotional—matter. They contribute to chemistry, confidence, and cohesion.
The WNBA season is a marathon, not a sprint, and teams often need time to gel. Indiana has undergone significant changes, integrating high-profile rookies and seasoned veterans into a new system. Head coach Stephanie White is still figuring out rotations, combinations, and strategies that bring out the best in her roster.
If Howard’s performance signals a turning point in her season, then the Fever’s trajectory could shift dramatically. It’s not unreasonable to think that Indiana could evolve into one of the league’s tougher outs by the time the playoffs roll around—particularly if Clark returns with her typical explosiveness and Howard continues to dominate the glass.
Team Dynamics and Coaching Considerations
Some fans have begun to question head coach Stephanie White’s decisions, especially following the team’s recent slump. However, it’s important to recognize the challenges that come with coaching a team full of young talent and integrating a high-usage rookie like Clark.
White’s job becomes significantly easier if veteran players like Howard step up. Their leadership on and off the court can stabilize the team during rough patches and provide a guiding presence for younger players still adjusting to the professional level.
It’s also worth noting that relying too heavily on Clark this early in her career isn’t sustainable. Spreading the offensive and defensive workload across players like Howard, Boston, and Mitchell will lead to a more well-rounded and resilient team over time.
Statistical Trends and Offensive Development
One key takeaway from Indiana’s recent games, even in Clark’s absence, is the emergence of alternative scoring and offensive generation. The Fever have shown signs of developing an identity beyond just one player. With Howard finding her rhythm and Mitchell maintaining her scoring prowess, the team is starting to create offense in different ways—through motion, pick-and-roll sets, and interior passing.
Howard’s mid-range shooting, combined with her rebounding and shot-blocking ability, makes her a dual threat. Her presence commands attention, which in turn opens lanes for slashers and shooters alike. If Indiana can continue this trend of diversified offense, they’ll be a much tougher team to guard down the stretch.
Conclusion: A Promising Sign Amid Setbacks
Indiana’s loss to Atlanta was undoubtedly disappointing. It exposed some of the team’s vulnerabilities, particularly their lack of physicality and occasional lapses in intensity. However, Natasha Howard’s performance stood out as a reminder of the talent and potential within this roster.
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