By going 10-9 in Clark's absence, the Fever have positioned themselves for a playoff run that maximizes the potential of a season she has missed 60% of. But they are still a much better team with her in the lineup -- and they will need her back at full strength in order to compete for a championship.

Caitlin Clark has been out for nearly a month with a right groin injury, and she still has a ways to go before her return.

Indiana Fever coach Stephanie White said Monday that All-Star guard Caitlin Clark is progressing from an injured right groin but still is not practicing. Clark has not played since suffering the injury in the final minute of an 85-77 victory over Connecticut on July 15.