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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?

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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.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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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Written by

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Abin Joseph

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Abin Joseph covers college basketball for EssentiallySports, blending journalism experience with a lifelong love for the game. Inspired by the ‘Mamba Mentality’ and the Shaq era, Abin brings sharp analysis and unique perspective to his NCAA coverage, earning recognition from both readers and coaches. Proudly a ‘free agent’ in the college hoops world, he’s still debating whether to join Dan Hurley’s sideline circus. When not writing, Abin can often be found on the court, staying close to the action he covers. When away from the keyboard, Abin can be found on the basketball court, immersing himself in the essence of the game he loves.

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Shivatmika Manvi

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