Evan Fournier and the New York Knicks haven’t always been on the same page.
The French guard has been heavily criticized for the kind of money he’s making and his lack of contributions on the court, and he’s also put the team — and coach Tom Thibodeau — on blast for not playing him.
Granted that Thibodeau could’ve at least given him a chance when he ran out of answers in the playoffs, but it’s not like Fournier had done a lot to earn his minutes, either.
That’s why it was kind of shocking to see that Fournier claimed that he’s actually looking forward to playing for the Knicks this season (Via Stefan Bondy).
Evan Fournier: “You guys might think I’m crazy but I’m coming here to play.
Added that he brings things that can help the team.
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) October 7, 2023
Fournier had already asked to be traded if he wasn’t going to play, but that’s not an easy task.
We’re talking about an aging player making almost $19 million next season.
But now that he’s entering the final guaranteed year of his contract — as next season is a team option — he could be a prime trade candidate for teams looking to absorb expiring deals and bad contracts in return for draft capital.
Fournier could still be valuable in the right situation, and the Knicks would be wise to try and dump his big salary in a move next season.
Perhaps the San Antonio Spurs could look to get him to mentor Victor Wembanyama and teach him the ropes of the NBA lifestyle.
Whatever the case, it’s unlikely that we’ll see him play a lot for the Knicks this season.
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Knicks Veteran Reveals What He’s Most Excited About This Season
