LOS ANGELES — With eight games left in the regular season, the Sparks (17-19) need to win more games than they lose over the final two weeks if they want a realistic chance to make the playoffs for the first time since 2020.

The team’s postseason outlook is not yet dire, but Friday night’s game at Crypto.com Arena against the Indiana Fever will likely prove to be pivotal.

“It’s a must-win for us, so we have to go in with that intensity,” Sparks second-year forward Cameron Brink said. “I think if we play with joy and a sense of urgency, it will come out our way.”

Sparks coach Lynne Roberts said her team is preparing to face the Fever without Caitlin Clark, who has not played since July 15 and has missed 16 straight games with a right groin injury.

“We have not planned for her playing, b

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