Evan Fournier, a French professional basketball player, began his NBA career when he was selected as the 20th overall pick by the Denver Nuggets in the 2012 NBA Draft. Fournier, known for his shooting ability and offensive skills, spent his rookie season with the Nuggets, where he gradually adapted to the pace and physicality of the NBA. During his time in Denver, he showed glimpses of his potential, particularly in his second season, where he increased his scoring average and became a more integral part of the team's rotation.
In 2014, Fournier was traded to the Orlando Magic, a move that marked a turning point in his career. With the Magic, Fournier found more opportunities to showcase his talents, becoming a regular starter and one of the team's primary scoring options. Over the years, he developed into a reliable shooting guard, known for his three-point shooting and ability to create his own shot. His scoring prowess was evident as he consistently averaged double figures in points per game, with his best season in Orlando coming in 2019-2020 when he averaged over 18 points per game.
Fournier's tenure with the Magic also saw him take on a leadership role, as he became one of the more experienced players on a young team. His performances helped Orlando reach the playoffs in 2019 and 2020, providing valuable scoring and experience in the postseason. Despite the team's struggles to advance past the first round, Fournier's contributions were a bright spot for the franchise during those years.
In March 2021, Fournier was traded to the Boston Celtics, where he continued to demonstrate his scoring ability. Although his time with the Celtics was brief, he made an immediate impact by providing the team with additional offensive firepower. Fournier's stint in Boston was highlighted by a career-high performance against the Miami Heat, where he scored 30 points, showcasing his ability to take over games when needed.
The following offseason, Fournier signed with the New York Knicks, further extending his NBA journey. With the Knicks, he continued to be a valuable asset, particularly with his shooting from beyond the arc. In his first season with New York, Fournier set a franchise record for the most three-pointers made in a single season, surpassing the previous record held by John Starks. His ability to stretch the floor and score from long range added a new dimension to the Knicks' offense.
Throughout his career, Fournier also represented the French national team in international competitions, contributing to their success on the global stage. He played a crucial role in helping France secure a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled and reliable player.
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