3 years agoNew York Knicks shooting guard Evan Fournier (thigh) and center Nerlens Noel (conditioning) have been ruled out for Saturday's contest against the Celtics. Fournier's absence is particularly troublesome for New York after the 29-year-old scorched Boston for a season-high 41 points Thursday; in three matchups vs. the Celtics this season, Fournier has averaged 35 PPG. Alec Burks and Quentin Grimes are likely to take on larger backcourt roles, while more of the offensive impetus will be funneled toward Julius Randle and RJ Barrett. Noel will be missing his ninth consecutive game, allowing Mitchell Robinson to hold down the center spot. The next chance for Fournier or Noel to return comes Monday vs. San Antonio.--Jesse Borek
Source: New York Knicks