Chris Boucher and the Boston Celtics forged a partnership over the summer with a mutual understanding that they need each other. The former Toronto Raptors forward sought to play for a team where he can earn more floor time. Celtics need someone who they can use while they wait for Jayson Tatum.
That’s not how it is looking so far. Boucher has played just eight games so far and is playing significantly less minutes than what he had from his former team.
Head coach Joe Mazzulla is keeping his faith on the veteran forward but he refuses to be the one to remind him of his role.
“I think he’s handling it well. I think he has an understanding of (that) he could play on any given night,” Mazzulla told reporters on Tuesday.
“He has an understanding that when he’s in there, it’s his job to impact winning. I thought he gave us some energy plays. I thought he gave us some effort.”
Boucher signed a $13.5 million deal for two years over the summer. He was with the Raptors for six years and started all games he was available in the last three seasons.
Boucher still fight for his Boston Celtics spot
Jordan Walsh has emerged as them main power forward for the Celtics this season after seeing just 52 games last season and starting in one.
That does not mean that Boucher has become expendable. He may be struggling with his fit but he is showing signs of improvement according to Mazzulla. This is good as Celtics are in dire need of versatility on the position on both ends to compensate for what Tatum can’t produce at the moment.
“We were able to be a little bit versatile on the defensive end. And it’s always hard for a guy that hasn’t played in a lot of games to go in and have to execute at game speed and I thought he did that for us,” the 2024 champion coach said.
“So it’s a credit to him, especially being in the league for as long as he has. And at the same time, it just validates anybody could help (us) win at any time — and we all have to be ready to do that.”
For the latest Basketball Content
Make sure you are always updated on your favorite basketball players and teams. Follow us @HardwoodHeroics for the latest and trending news about NBA, college basketball, and more. Stay updated by reading more of our NBA articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!
