Knicks News: Evan Fournier 'Front-Runner' over Quentin Grimes to Start at SG

The train may have fallen off the rails.

According to the New York Knicks coach, Evan Fournier is the front-runner to start at shooting guard this year.

At shooting guard, we need to shoot with Julius.

The Knicks have a favorite of their fans in the form of Grimes. Last season, the first-round pick averaged 6.0 points and 2.0 rebound, but he was impressive in Summer League and flashed when given extended minutes as a freshman.

It should have been obvious to anyone who knew him that this would happen. Veteran talent is Thibs' main focus. This is a coach who has consistently given Taj Gibson extended playing time late in his career over younger talent, and he has, at every stop, leaned on players he doesn't trust.

We won't know if he is in a doghouse until the season begins. Given the coaching staff we're dealing with, the hype surrounding him seemed a bit optimistic.

If Fournier's play dictates a change needs to be made, he'll be the starter for the opening night. Fournier's contract caused a stir in New York last season, but he's a veteran who knows how to fill his role. It's not his fault that the Knicks front office lavished him with a contract that was overpay from the beginning.

Fournier is probably a better player at the moment. Rather than two years down the road, Thibodeau will coach for now. It's possible that makes him a bad fit for a team that likely peaks as a play in contender, but until Thibs' hand is forced or he's given his walking papers, Fournier will get the job.