Knicks guard Evan Fournier is just about the only NBA player to be happy to be traded to the Pistons, as he might finally get some decent minutes.
“I’m really excited to finally be out of New York,” he told reporters at Monday’s practice. “As soon as I got traded they called me and said they’ve been trying to have me for the last couple of seasons now, so I’m looking forward to the opportunity.”
Fournier has been on super limited minutes for the Knicks since last season and told media felt like he was being “held hostage” at the organisation. He has played in just three games this season.
In an explosive interview with L’Equipe during the offseason, Fournier lashed out at the Knicks for his lack of playing time.
“You want to spit on everyone,” Fournier said. “You have hatred. Derrick Rose and I looked at each other and said to each other: ‘What the hell are we doing here?’ During the five-on-five practice, we were on the side like some prospects. Uncool times.”
In the same interview, he also commented on his lack of relationship with head coach Tom Thibodeau, saying, “I have nothing to say because I have none. When he took me out of the five, he just told me he was going to try something else. Then at the first match of a road trip, he announced to me that I was leaving the rotation, and ciao.”
Despite the bad blood, Thibodeau wished Fournier the best following his trade to Detroit.
“He did a good job for us,” the head coach told Newsday. “I know it wasn’t easy for him. When we signed him we felt he was a real good fit and he had a great season for us, but sometimes the strengths of your club change.
“You always have to do what’s best for your team — sometimes that means guys fall out of the rotation. It’s not about liking a guy or not liking a guy. You just have to do what’s best for your team. I have nothing but respect for him, I certainly wish him well in Detroit.”
