Chris Boucher’s readiness is all that the Toronto Raptors need from him. The 6-foot-9 Canadian forward hasn’t played for the Raptors in four games, and it has been two weeks since his last game in which he didn’t receive garbage time.
Since then, he has not only stopped playing in the rotation but has also missed two games despite Toronto blowing out games and wearing out its bench. He is an experienced player who has spent a lot of time in the league. Boucher needs to maintain his preparation, keep working out, and maintain the best physical condition possible, according to Raptors coach Darko Rajaković. “Be prepared to play and compete when his number is called; support the team.”
Early in the season, it was evident that Boucher would play a different role in Toronto. He had been in and out of the lineup for the first few months of the season and did not play on opening night. It is evident that Boucher will not be a part of Toronto’s future.
By all accounts, the organization attempted, but was unable, to trade him by the trade deadline. That was probably due to the $10.8 million he owes for the upcoming season and the unwillingness of competing teams to pay him a long-term contract. More than that, though, Boucher’s playing style also appears to have lost favor in Toronto. Although the Raptors have prioritized passing this season as they transition to a more egalitarian offense, he has never been a particularly good passer. The other complicating factor for Toronto is probably Boucher’s age. He’s only in his sixth NBA season, but at thirty-one, he’s not the kind of player the Raptors want to pair with their youthful core.
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