Chris Boucher is the only remaining player from the Toronto Raptors 2019 championship roster.
As the Raptors transitioned to a rebuild this season, it was believed that the veteran was going to be dealt at the trade deadline.
However, Boucher was not moved and now he has fallen out of Toronto’s rotation.
Boucher did see some playing time in the Raptors latest game against the Phoenix Suns because they were severely shorthanded.
In his first real minutes in almost a month, the Canadian had a nice outing from off the bench.
The 31-year-old put up 11 points and 9 rebounds in 24 minutes of action. He was very efficient from the field going 5-6.
Many are confused why Boucher has not been playing for Toronto since he has been a productive bench player.
Darko Rajakovic finally opened up about it via Sportsnet’s Michael Grange:
“Just the state of our team and trying to give opportunity and looks to different players. When Jakob [Poeltl] is playing he is the starting 5, since we got Kelly [Olynyk] he is a backup 5, and I believe that the best position for CB [Chris Boucher] is being that 5-man roller, rebounder, slasher….proud of his effort tonight and we still need to get more.”
Darko discussed why Chris Boucher hasn’t played much recently and the season as a whole.
“Just the state of our team and trying to give opportunity and looks to different players.”
Shouts to @michaelgrange for asking about it. He’s always willing to ask the tough questions. pic.twitter.com/6YOS18WYNG
— Amit Mann (@Amit_Mann) March 8, 2024
With the Raptors now focusing on player development, Boucher appears to be the odd man out.
Boucher’s future in Toronto
Even though Rajakovic has stated that the Raptors goal is to win, Boucher has not been given opportunities to play.
Therefore, it only seems like a matter of time until the Raptors and Boucher split ways.
He still has one more year left with the Raptors after this season so Toronto could look to move him this summer.
Have you subscribed to the Raptors Nation YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
