Two-Time NBA Champion Becoming Unplayable for the Celtics?
The Boston Celtics’ frontcourt rotation is already under scrutiny just weeks into the new season, and veteran forward Chris Boucher has quickly found himself at the center of the conversation. The two-time NBA champion, signed from Toronto during the offseason, was expected to bring veteran energy, rim protection, and floor spacing to a roster built for another deep playoff run. Unfortunately, those hopes have yet to materialize through the first four games. So far, Boucher has scored only six total points, all of which came during the season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers. He’s shooting just 20 percent from the field and has missed all six of his three-point attempts. His minutes have plummeted, falling from 40 across the first three games to just three in Boston’s first win. For a team with championship aspirations, Boucher’s underwhelming start is raising real questions about whether he can still be a nightly contributor.
The veteran’s decline hasn’t come out of nowhere. Boucher appeared in just 50 games last season with the Raptors, during which Toronto posted a negative net rating when he was on the floor. Despite his length and experience, his energy and timing haven’t translated well into Boston’s system. The Celtics have been outscored by 11 points during his limited minutes this year, and his defensive lapses have compounded the team’s early struggles on both ends of the floor. Head coach Joe Mazzulla has already started adjusting the rotation, leaning increasingly on Neemias Queta, Xavier Tillman Sr., and Luka Garza to stabilize the frontcourt. While Boucher still offers veteran presence and championship experience, that alone may not be enough to justify his role if production doesn’t follow.
At 32 years old, Boucher’s decline could be more than just a slow start. His combination of inefficient shooting, frequent fouls, and missed defensive rotations has made him unreliable in meaningful minutes. The Celtics signed him to add depth and experience to a roster aiming for another Finals run, but through four games, that gamble hasn’t paid off. As Mazzulla searches for reliable contributors to complement stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, Boucher’s future in the rotation appears uncertain. Unless he finds a way to rediscover the consistency that once made him a valued role player in Toronto, the two-time champion could find himself watching from the bench as Boston continues to chase a return to championship form.
