By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Evan Fournier made himself part of the New York Knicks history well early in his stint. His new side connected 24 three-pointers in the win at Orlando Magic setting a new franchise record for most successful long-range attempts in a single game.
“Honestly, we just played the right way. We took what was in front of us,” noted the French swingman after sinking 4/9 triples en route for 18 points in 27 minutes visiting the city he called home for seven years.
Fournier, 28, was acquired in August via a sign-and-trade deal with the Boston Celtics a few months after being traded by the Magic on an expiring contract. After tying his career-high 32 points in the double-overtime win against the Celtics at home, he helped the Knicks improve to 2-0 on Friday evening. The three-point record was an added bonus.
“It started with Kemba. That three-pointer got us going. I think we made three threes coming off pick-and-rolls. And kind of gives you confidence,” he said walking through the first chunk of three-pointers, “Then we just shared the ball, tried to be aggressive, and make the right play. All we had to do is shoot it. I think it was just the result of good offense.”
“It’s proven that energy is contagious. When you have good energy, good vibe, then you build momentum. When you are on the floor, you have more confidence to shoot the ball, get to your spot,” added Fournier, “It was just a great atmosphere. The bench was really into it, the fans were into it. A lot of positive things tonight.”
Another game versus the Magic, moving both sides from Orlando to New York, follows on the 2021-22 NBA Regular Season schedule on Sunday.