4 Evan Fournier trades the NY Knicks could make right now

If only the Knicks could play every game against the Celtics.

I was in the camp of being patient with Evan Fournier. He was brought in to replace Reggie Bullock, a spot-up shooter who was essential on defense.

Fournier is more of a secondary ball-handler, but it didn’t seem like too far of a stretch that he could adjust his game accordingly to fit the NY Knicks changing offense.

For the most part, he hasn’t.

Before having the greatest game of his career, scoring 41 points against the Celtics, he had 0 against the Pacers.

His defense is subpar and his shooting has regressed, making only 40% of his field goals and 36% of his three-pointers – down from his 40% and 41% three-point clip the last two seasons.

Should the NY Knicks trade Evan Fournier?

As the New York Knicks head into the trade deadline, Evan Fournier is by far and away the most obvious trade candidate.

Unfortunately, that’s not going to be easy, after signing a 4-year, 78mm contract this offseason (the 4th year is a club option).

Fournier’s salary was an important choice this offseason. Yes, he looked like he’d be an important addition to their offense, but his roughly 17mm / year is needed in matching contracts in any trade for a star.

It doesn’t look like New York is trading for a star anytime soon, so, should they trade him now?

It’s going to be hard, but no contact is untradable (especially if he keeps looking like he did last night, in which case they should hold on to him).

I still think they should be patient and perhaps bench him, hoping he regains his form with the second unit on the court. I outlined these trades before his masterpiece against the Celtics, which should show how much the Frenchman’s value fluctuates.

If Fournier’s gotta leave town – and gotta leave now, here are some ways it could happen.