Caitlin Clark’s playing style resembles Trae Young’s rather than Stephen Curry’s, according to Yahoo Sports. In a commentary on her performance, sports analyst David Dennis Jr. highlighted Clark’s need for the ball and called for changes to her gameplay during a discussion in October 2023.
What happened
David Dennis Jr., a best-selling author and sports analyst, contends that Caitlin Clark’s abilities are not on the same level as four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry. He argues that Curry excels at generating shots off the ball, while Clark relies heavily on having the ball in her hands. “There’s a wide gulf between Trae Young and Stephen Curry,” Dennis noted on social media.[1]
He further explained that both Clark and Young hold the ball for extended periods before initiating offense. Dennis criticized Clark’s current performance and decision-making, stating, “She’s gotta learn to get off ball and cause chaos on defenses. This ain’t it.”[2]
Young shares similar challenges; his high production has often been overshadowed by frequent turnovers and poor defensive plays. He has averaged 4.2 turnovers per game throughout his NBA career, a statistic that has negatively impacted his former team, the Atlanta Hawks.
Why it matters
This comparison underscores the risks that both players face concerning their gameplay strategies. For Clark, whose ball-heavy style has resulted in 5.3 turnovers per game, there is a pressing need to adapt in order to succeed at a higher level. Adjusting her playing style could not only enhance her performance but also stabilize her team’s overall effectiveness in the league.
Background
On May 20, 2026, Clark played her third season with the Indiana Fever, averaging 19.1 points and 8.4 assists. Despite her scoring prowess, she has struggled in isolation plays and against pick-and-roll switches, which teams exploit to increase her turnovers. These issues became even more apparent during Indiana’s recent disappointing season.[3]
Last season, Young faced injuries that limited his time on the court, as he played only 10 games due to a right MCL sprain before being traded to the Washington Wizards.
What’s next
Clark and the Indiana Fever plan to implement strategies that emphasize off-ball movement in upcoming games. The coaching staff aims to design plays that allow Clark to utilize her shooting capabilities while reducing her ball-handling responsibilities.
