By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Orlando Magic were held to 1-4 with Evan Fournier sidelined for the five previous games due to back spasms. His return and 19 points helped in Wednesday’s win over the New York Knicks to start a four-game stretch of home fixtures.
“I am happy to be playing again,” stressed the French swingman, “Obviously, I have been struggling lately with my health. I am not taking anything for granted. It is so much pleasure every time I step on the floor.”
Fournier, 28, made 8/15 field goals including 3/5 from deep, also produced three rebounds, three assists, and one steal in 31 minutes. His side went up to 11-18 but still trails the Eastern Conference playoff spots by 2.5 wins.
“It doesn’t matter if we are playing at home or on the road. We just have to win,” he noted, “We have been dealing with injuries, so it was really hard to win consistently.”
Apart from seeking a third consecutive playoff berth, the Magic are gunning for Nikola Vucevic to be part of the 2021 All-Star Game. The Montenegrin big debuted in 2019.
“I am confident the coaches will make the right choice,” mentioned Fournier regarding the head coaches selecting the reserves of the 12-man rosters.
Fournier, through his first 15 games of the 2020-21 season, has been averaging 17.9 points, 3.6 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per contest. His teammate is up to 23.4 points, 11.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.6 blocks per match.
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