Darko Rajakovic Speaks On Chris Boucher’s Role In Toronto

Chris Boucher is the lone player remaining from the Toronto Raptors championship team from 2019.

A lot has changed since then as Toronto embarks on a new journey as a franchise. After trying to remain competitive since the title, the Raptors are the midst of a much needed rebuild.

At the trade deadline, Boucher and other Raptors were rumored to be on the market. It was no secret that Toronto was looking for a new home for Boucher.

Now that the deadline has come and gone, Boucher’s role is up in the air and it seems that his time with the organization is limited. Head coach Darko Rajakovic provided an answer on the forward’s role with the team moving forward, via Aaron Rose of Sports Illustrated:

“He is a veteran player who has been around the league for a long time. He needs to stay ready, continue practicing, and staying in the best shape possible. When his numbers are called, be ready to compete and play, help the team.”

Despite the recent moves, Boucher has struggled to be in the rotation and receive any kind of consistent minutes.

After not playing in four straight games, Boucher finally saw some non-garbage time minutes for the first time in two weeks against the Indiana Pacers. Kelly Olynyk left the game early with a back injury so Boucher stepped in. He played 11 minutes and scored 10 points to go along with 4 rebounds.

The 31-year-old signed a three-year, $35.2 million contract with the Raptors in 2022. Now he is entering the final year of his deal after this season.

When the season concludes, it will not be surprising to see Boucher’s name back in the rumor mill.

Boucher is a solid player but right now he simply does not fit Toronto’s rebuild.

Boston Celtics interested in Chris Boucher

As mentioned, Boucher was reportedly available on the trade market. Once team that reportedly showed interest in him was the Boston Celtics.

However, a deal did not come to fruition and Boston ultimately pivoted to Memphis Grizzlies big man Xavier Tillman Sr. Perhaps Boston and Toronto will revisit this conversation this summer.