Spurs among teams interested in trade for disgruntled three-point ace

Knicks guard Evan Fournier is well aware that he played his last game in New York. As he awaits his anticipated trade, his market appears to be taking shape.

The 30-year-old recently sat down with Yann Ohnona of L'Equipe to discuss his experience with the Knicks, ranging from last season's benching to what he envisions for his future. Fournier, who is entering the final guaranteed season of his four-year, $78 million deal, has a highly-desirable contract for teams aiming to free cap space for next offseason. 

With that in mind, SNY’s Ian Begley is reporting that although "a few" potential playoff teams are interested in trading for Fournier, there's one organization in particular that he's monitoring.

"I have heard that a few teams – teams that seem like they could make the playoffs – have had interest in acquiring Evan Fournier,” Begley writes. “One other team that I am keeping an eye on is San Antonio. The Spurs are among those teams who have had interest in acquiring Fournier via trade." 

Additionally, Begley notes that New York was previously unwilling to include draft picks in any potential trade involving Fournier but is unsure whether that position has changed. 

Last week, HoopsHype's Michael Scotto reported that the Knicks, Phoenix Suns and Indiana Pacers held "exploratory discussions on a three-team trade" that would've sent Fournier and draft compensation to Indiana. However, talks stalled and it's unclear if they'll resume, as former Phoenix guard Cam Payne, who would've been included in the potential deal, has since been traded to the Spurs. 

While San Antonio probably won't be contending for the playoffs this season, it would be an intriguing landing spot for Fournier, who could serve as a mentor for fellow Frenchman Victor Wembanyama. Aside from sharing a homeland, Fournier and Wembanyama – the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft – are both represented by Comsport's Bouna Ndiaye. 

During his interview with L'Equipe, Fournier mentioned that it would be "a pleasure and an honor" to play for Spurs HC Gregg Popovich and with Wembanyama. Fournier, a career 37.9 percent three-point shooter, would be a valuable addition for the Spurs, considering the team shot 34.5 percent from beyond the arc last season, the fifth-worst mark in the Association.

The Spurs would have to send the Knicks a player whose salary meets trade rules in a deal for Fournier,. One potential target could be veteran wing Doug McDermott, who is set to earn $13.8 million this season. McDermott, 31, played in 55 games for New York in the 2017-18 season, during which he averaged 7.2 points and 2.4 rebounds. 

Although playing for Popovich and alongside Wembanyama would be appealing for Fournier, the marksman would surely be happy to join any team that's willing to actually use him.