Fever's Clark expected to return Saturday vs. Liberty

Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is expected to return for Saturday's clash with the New York Liberty, head coach Stephanie White told The Indianapolis Star's Chloe Peterson.

Clark missed Indiana's last five games due to a left quad strain.

"She's working her way back," White said. "I felt like today was better than yesterday in terms of movement and balance and feeling like she's getting back into the rhythm."

White added, "As long as we don't have any regression, she's going to be ready to roll."

The Fever are also planning to welcome back guard Sophie Cunningham, who was sidelined for the last three contests with an ankle injury.

Clark, 23, is averaging 19 points, a league-high 9.3 assists, six rebounds, and 1.3 steals in four games this season.

Indiana released guard Aari McDonald as a result of Clark and Cunningham returning to the active roster. McDonald was signed on an emergency hardship contract and impressed in three games, averaging 11 points and three assists.

Fever forward and six-time All-Star DeWanna Bonner isn't expected to be in the lineup Saturday, White said. Bonner has been absent due to personal reasons.

The Fever welcome the 9-0 Liberty to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for a WNBA Commissioner's Cup matchup on the heels of their loss to the Atlanta Dream.