The Boston Celtics have made a significant move in the offseason, signing forward Chris Boucher to bolster their frontcourt depth. The deal, which was confirmed by league sources, reunites Boucher with his former University of Oregon teammate Payton Pritchard, adding a layer of familiarity and chemistry to the Celtics’ roster. This signing comes at a crucial time for Boston, as they look to build on their recent success and make another deep playoff run in the upcoming NBA season.
Boucher, a 6’9″ forward, has spent the last several seasons with the Toronto Raptors, where he developed into a reliable role player known for his shot-blocking, energy, and ability to stretch the floor. His unique skill set—combining length, athleticism, and a developing three-point shot—makes him an intriguing addition to a Celtics team that values versatility. Last season, Boucher averaged 6.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game in limited minutes, but his per-36-minute numbers (14.3 points, 9.6 rebounds, 1.6 blocks) suggest he can be a productive player when given consistent opportunities.
The reunion with Pritchard adds an interesting dynamic to this signing. The two played together at Oregon during the 2016-17 season, forming a formidable duo that led the Ducks to the Final Four. Pritchard, then a freshman, was the team’s starting point guard, while Boucher, a senior, was the defensive anchor and a key offensive contributor before suffering a season-ending ACL injury late in the year. Despite the setback, Boucher’s impact on the program was undeniable, and his connection with Pritchard was evident both on and off the court. Now, nearly seven years later, they will have the chance to rekindle that chemistry in the NBA.
For the Celtics, this move addresses several needs. With Al Horford entering the twilight of his career and Robert Williams III dealing with persistent injury concerns, Boucher provides much-needed depth in the frontcourt. His ability to protect the rim and switch onto smaller defenders aligns perfectly with Boston’s defensive identity under head coach Joe Mazzulla. Additionally, Boucher’s improving three-point shooting (he shot 32.8% from deep last season) gives the Celtics another floor-spacing big who can play alongside either Horford or Kristaps Porzingis without clogging the paint.
Offensively, Boucher’s game is a mix of rim-running, putback dunks, and occasional perimeter shooting. While he’s not a primary scoring option, his energy and hustle make him a valuable asset in second units. The Celtics’ system, which emphasizes ball movement and player mobility, should allow Boucher to thrive in a role similar to the one he played in Toronto—a high-energy big who can finish lobs, crash the glass, and knock down open threes when needed.
Defensively, Boucher’s length and timing make him a disruptive presence. His 7’4″ wingspan allows him to contest shots effectively, and his mobility enables him to guard multiple positions. In a league where versatility is paramount, Boucher’s ability to switch onto guards and hold his own in space will be a valuable asset for Boston. The Celtics already boast one of the best defenses in the NBA, and adding Boucher only strengthens their ability to disrupt opponents.
Another factor in this signing is Boucher’s championship experience. As a member of the 2019 Toronto Raptors, he was part of a team that won the NBA title, albeit in a limited role. However, being around a winning culture and learning from veterans like Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Lowry, and Marc Gasol undoubtedly shaped his approach to the game. That experience could prove invaluable in a Celtics locker room filled with young talent and championship aspirations.
For Boucher, this is an opportunity to prove he can contribute to a contender in a more significant role. At 31 years old, he’s entering what could be the prime years of his career, and playing alongside established stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown could elevate his game. The Celtics’ system, which prioritizes unselfish play and defensive intensity, is a perfect fit for his skill set. If he can stay healthy and carve out a consistent role, Boucher could become a fan favorite in Boston.
The Pritchard connection adds an extra layer of intrigue. The two have remained close since their Oregon days, and their on-court chemistry was evident during their lone season together. Pritchard, who has emerged as a key bench piece for the Celtics, is known for his playmaking and leadership. Having a familiar face in Boucher could help ease the transition and accelerate Boucher’s integration into the team’s schemes.
From a roster construction standpoint, the Celtics have done an excellent job of adding depth without sacrificing flexibility. Boucher’s contract is reportedly team-friendly, allowing Boston to maintain financial flexibility for future moves. With the NBA’s new collective bargaining agreement imposing stricter financial penalties on high-spending teams, the Celtics’ front office has been careful not to overcommit. Boucher’s signing strikes the right balance between adding talent and preserving future options.
The Eastern Conference remains highly competitive, with teams like the Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat all making moves to improve. The Celtics, coming off a season where they fell just short of the NBA Finals, are clearly in win-now mode. Adding Boucher may not be the flashiest move, but it’s the kind of under-the-radar signing that can pay dividends in the playoffs. His skill set complements Boston’s stars, and his familiarity with Pritchard could lead to some fun moments on the court.
In many ways, this signing is a low-risk, high-reward move for the Celtics. If Boucher thrives, he could become a key rotation piece. If not, the financial commitment is minimal enough that it won’t hinder the team’s long-term plans. But given Boucher’s track record and the fit within Boston’s system, there’s plenty of reason to believe this partnership will work out well for both sides.
As the Celtics continue to fine-tune their roster ahead of training camp, the addition of Chris Boucher stands out as a smart, calculated move. Reuniting him with Payton Pritchard adds a feel-good storyline, but more importantly, it strengthens a team with legitimate championship aspirations. For Celtics fans, this signing is another reason to be excited about the upcoming season.
The NBA offseason is always full of surprises, but sometimes the most impactful moves are the ones that fly under the radar. Chris Boucher may not be a household name, but his arrival in Boston could prove to be one of the most important additions of the summer. With his defensive versatility, offensive potential, and existing chemistry with Pritchard, Boucher has all the tools to make a significant impact. The Celtics are betting on it—and if all goes according to plan, this reunion could help bring Banner 18 to Boston.
