Two of the biggest stars in the WNBA go head-to-head on Thursday night when the Indiana Fever plays the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA Commissioner’s Cup. But it seems like Angel Reese and her team might have an edge over Caitlin Clark's and the Fever.

Although Clark has been averaging 20.1 points and 8.1 assists per game this season, the struggle for the Fever is on the defensive side; this is where Reese and the Dream have the advantage.

The Fever this season is allowing 89 points per game to their opponents, giving away a total of 712 points so far, falling in second place, with the LA Sparks handing out 747.

On the other hand, the Dream have been in great form so far, having a record of 6-2. Forward Angel Reese is making the most rebounds per game at 11. The Dream also tops the charts, averaging 37.7 rebounds per game.

In the game against the Portland Fire, Clark struggled to guard the Fire's Carla Leite. Leite scored 18 points and made 12 assists, while Clark was limited to just 6 points.

The Fever have also committed the most personal fouls per game this season, with 24.1 per game. The lack of defensive awareness and frustration when they lose the ball is showing.

Reese and the Dream can capitalize on this as well. Atlanta has been racking up steals. The team has been averaging 8.4 steals per game so far, falling just behind the Minnesota Lynx and Connecticut Suns, averaging 8.7.

This could give them an advantage in quickly transitioning the ball and attacking in the paint.

While Angel Reese is picking things up defensively, Clark has been criticized for not showing passion in defense lately.

Will Caitlin Clark Make Changes in Her Playing Style Ahead of Angel Reese and Atlanta's Challenge

As mentioned earlier, with Leite, Clark has struggled against her opponents' offense. Journalist Jason Whitlock also criticized Clark for not putting effort into the game off the ball in his Fearless podcast.

Clark has also been committing constant fouls, and she was out for the majority of the game against the Fire due to foul trouble. Reese, on the other hand, has been consistent with taking advantage of rhythm breaks thus far.

A question arises as to whether Clark or even the Fever head coach, Stephanie White, will make changes to the way Clark plays.

Otherwise, Reese and the Dream rebounders can trouble the Fever.

Another threat comes in the form of Allisha Gray, who has been averaging more points than Clark, at 21.1 per game. If the Fever fails to defend her as well, she could be an offensive weapon for the Dream.

The Fever are coming off two straight losses and will look to redeem themselves against the Dream on Thursday.

Do you think Caitlin Clark and the Fever can overcome their defensive slump and beat Angel Reese and the Dream? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Dhruv Singh

Edited by

Surjo Ray