New York Knicks forward Evan Fournier David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Rudy Gobert questions New York Knicks treatment of Evan Fournier

By Adam Taylor | Last updated 10/15/23

Evan Fournier's tenure with the New York Knicks has been disastrous. The former Orlando Magic standout has struggled to make an impact. Last season, Fournier found himself consigned to a bench role, with the veteran forward making 27 appearances for the Knicks despite being healthy for most of the season.

However, Fournier shone during the FIBA World Cup for France. During a recent interview with Stefan Bondy of the New York Post , Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert questioned Fournier's current plight on the Knicks. The former Defensive Player of the Year noted how Fournier is "stuck in a situation." Gobert also said that Fournier is likely the best shooter on the Knicks roster.

“He’s the best shooter on the team. He’s the best shooter on the Knicks,” Gobert told Bondy. "...It’s kind of weird when you end up on the bench and you don’t really know why. Sometimes you can be stuck in a situation — I know he’s going to have an opportunity again, and everybody will understand that he can help and win. And do it at a high level. And do it every night.”

Rudy Gobert backs fellow Frenchman Evan Fournier, calls him "the best shooter on the Knicks" in interview with The Post. https://t.co/azDvkZe8za
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) October 15, 2023

Before joining the Knicks, Fournier had a disappointing spell with the Boston Celtics. Fournier, 30, is a talented offensive player. He can score from all three levels and create for himself and others. Yet, the veteran forward has struggled to produce on the defensive end. In the modern NBA, players have to guard their yard.

Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau is especially strict on his players being high-level defenders. Fournier has failed to reach Thibodeau's high standards. New York has many young developmental talents willing to go the extra mile. Fournier's plight is largely due to the situation he finds himself in.

Fournier will need to wait for a trade. He will then need to hope his new team can put him in positions to succeed. Until then, Fournier has to bide his time and continue trying to work his way back into Thibodeau's rotation. Unfortunately for him, that appears to be an unlikely outcome.

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