Caitlin Clark’s potential WNBA suspension becomes a hot topic after Lynx incident

The Fever defeated the Lynx, but at what cost?

Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever continue their gradual rise up the WNBA standings, and they could even make a shock playoff appearance in Clark‘s rookie season. But the star point guard is starting to tread on some mighty fine ice with the league.

Clark helped the Fever to an 81-74 win over the visiting Minnesota Lynx on Sunday, a victory which brought the Fever’s record to 11-14. But the grind of life in the WNBA could be getting to Clark just a little bit, as she picked up a technical foul during the game for a petulant swipe at an opponent’s face — and the league is paying attention as the Rookie of the Year favorite inches closer to a suspension.

Clark was assessed a technical foul for hitting out at Lynx forward Cecilia Zandalasini during Sunday’s game, a move that seemed to be in response to Zandalasini grabbing at Clark’s arm. The All-Star now has four technicals to her name this season — and three more techs will bring a one-game suspension, as well as an $800 fine.

With 15 games left, and Indiana chasing its first playoff berth since 2016, it is paramount that Clark remain healthy and available for when the Fever return to action following the Olympic break next month. She has withstood enhanced physicality throughout her rookie season, making adjustments on the fly and gradually improving as a player, but Fever coach Christie Sides might want to remind Clark gently that sometimes, you’ve got to take the high road.