As the NBA trade deadline looms, the Boston Celtics find themselves in a familiar position - perched near the top of the Eastern Conference and facing tough decisions about how (or if) to tweak a roster that’s already clicking. While names like Anfernee Simons and Sam Hauser have floated around as possible trade chips, a new name has entered the conversation: Chris Boucher.
According to reports, Boucher is someone to keep an eye on as the deadline approaches. And while he might not be the biggest name on the Celtics' roster, his situation offers a window into Boston’s strategic thinking - both on the court and on the balance sheet.
Let’s start with Simons, who’s been a key part of Boston’s strong first half. He’s embraced a bench role for the first time since the 2021-22 season, and he’s thriving in it - averaging 13.5 points per game while shooting a scorching 40.2% from deep.
That kind of production off the bench is gold for a contender, especially one that’s already loaded with top-end talent in the starting five. And with his $27.7 million expiring contract, Simons offers both short-term value and long-term flexibility.
Translation: Boston would need a very compelling reason to move him.
That brings us back to Boucher. The 33-year-old big man signed a one-year, $2.3 million deal with Boston in the offseason, with the hope that he could bolster the frontcourt rotation.
But so far, he’s struggled to carve out a consistent role. He’s averaging just 11.4 minutes per game, buried behind Luka Garza and Josh Minott on the depth chart.
His production - 2.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game on 31.8% shooting - hasn’t moved the needle.
From a basketball standpoint, Boucher’s limited role makes sense. Boston’s frontcourt is deep and versatile, and there just haven’t been many minutes available.
But from a financial perspective, moving Boucher could be more about the books than the box score. The Celtics are currently $12 million over the luxury tax line.
Trading Boucher wouldn’t get them under it - but it could save them around $9 million in tax payments. For a team already operating in the second apron, that’s not nothing.
It’s a bit of a tough break for Boucher, who’s had one of the more inspiring journeys in the league. After going undrafted in 2017, he caught on with the Warriors and earned a ring in 2018, even if his on-court contributions were limited.
He then found a real home in Toronto, where he became a fan favorite thanks to his energy, shot-blocking, and floor-spacing. In the G-League, he dominated - winning both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2018-19 with Raptors 905, averaging 27.2 points and 4.1 blocks per game.
His best NBA season came in 2020-21, when he posted 13.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, showing off the kind of two-way versatility that’s rare for a player his size and background.
But in Boston, the fit just hasn’t materialized. Whether it’s the crowded rotation, the system, or just a cold shooting stretch, Boucher hasn’t found his rhythm. That doesn’t mean he can’t still help a team - his shot-blocking instincts and ability to stretch the floor still hold value - but it might take a change of scenery to unlock that version of him again.
As the deadline nears, the Celtics don’t have to make a move. They’re already one of the league’s most complete teams.
But if Brad Stevens and the front office decide to fine-tune the margins - whether for financial relief or roster flexibility - don’t be surprised if Boucher’s name comes up. He may not be the headline, but he could be part of the story.