Celtics Urged to Seal Deal for ‘Outrageous’ Star Chris Boucher Amid Offseason Shake-Up
As the Boston Celtics look to solidify their roster in the wake of Jayson Tatum’s long-term injury setback, calls are growing louder for the franchise to complete a deal for Toronto Raptors forward Chris Boucher, described by insiders as an “outrageous” fit for the defending NBA champions.
While the Celtics celebrated banner No. 18 just weeks ago, attention has rapidly shifted toward roster reinforcement. The need for an athletic, floor-spacing forward who can also protect the rim has become paramount—especially given the uncertainty surrounding Tatum’s recovery timeline. Chris Boucher has emerged as the top name on Boston’s radar.
Speaking on local radio station WEEI, former Celtics guard and current analyst Eddie House was effusive in his praise of Boucher: “If I’m Brad Stevens, I’m making that call today. Boucher is outrageous in terms of value—he gives you length, defense, energy, and he can knock down threes. You’re getting a guy who can flip games off the bench.”
Budget-Savvy, High-Impact Addition
At 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, Boucher is the prototype of the modern NBA hybrid big. Last season with the Raptors, he averaged 10.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 36.3% from beyond the arc—numbers that caught the attention of several contending teams. But with Boston facing a ballooning luxury tax bill, his modest contract demands and veteran presence make him an ideal target.
Sources close to the front office say Stevens views Boucher as a “smart, low-risk” acquisition who could offer versatility without disrupting team chemistry or cap structure. “We’re not looking for a star to replace Tatum—we’re looking for glue guys who can keep us ticking while he’s out,” one executive reportedly stated.
Locker Room Fit and System Compatibility
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla is said to be a strong supporter of Boucher’s potential arrival, particularly due to his ability to play alongside both Al Horford and Kristaps Porziņģis in multi-big lineups, or even serve as a small-ball five. Boucher’s defensive mobility and shot-blocking would complement Boston’s switch-heavy schemes and take pressure off the aging Horford.
“Boston doesn’t need another ball-dominant scorer—they need intelligent, athletic players who embrace their role,” said ESPN analyst Tim Legler. “Boucher does that. He’s one of the most underutilized assets in the league.”
Fans Back the Move
Celtics fans have also joined the chorus of support. On social media, hashtags like #BringBoucherToBoston and #BoucherBoost have been trending across local platforms, with many applauding the idea of adding a veteran who can produce in key moments without disrupting the team’s dynamic.
As the Celtics prepare for a pivotal free agency period and attempt to defend their championship under adversity, Chris Boucher’s name continues to ring loudest in the TD Garden hallways.
Whether Brad Stevens answers that call with action remains to be seen—but few doubt Boucher’s ability to make a massive difference.
