Raptors: Chris Boucher could return soon after latest injury update

The Toronto Raptors are finally ready to get their 2021-22 season started off on the right foot, and they managed to get some extra good news in the form of a Chris Boucher injury update right before the opener. No. 25 figures to be a huge part of the team’s success in the paint this season.

Boucher started to really come into his own last year, averaging 13.6 points per game and just under two blocks per contest. One of the best big men in the league at defending the perimeter, Boucher fits in with how Toronto wants to build their roster in 2021 and for the next few seasons.

Unfortunately, whatever momentum that the native Canadian had going into the season was blunted when he was ruled out for the entire preseason due to a finger injury. While the initial diagnosis of a few weeks set him back, he sounds ready to gear up and help Toronto make one more charge to the postseason.

Per Kayla Grey of TSN, Boucher took part in practice today and will be listed as questionable for the home opener against the Washington Wizards. Even if he sits that contest out, fans can expect that he would rejoin the starting lineup sometime in the near future, which is fantastic news.

The latest Chris Boucher injury update is good for the Toronto Raptors.

While Scottie Barnes was extremely impressive in the preseason, there is still a chance that Boucher starts at the power forward spot until Pascal Siakam is ready to return from his injury. When everyone is healthy, look for Boucher to eat up some significant minutes as a bench player due to his shooting, shot-blocking, and hustle.

Boucher is an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season, so this year is pivotal for both player and team alike. If he balls out, Boucher could get himself some multi-year security. If he flops, that could drastically change Toronto’s outlook for 2022 and beyond.

Chris Boucher stands as one of the shining examples of what Toronto can do for a player from a developmental point of view. He’s still got a role to play this season, as his masterful perimeter defense, improved shooting, and versatility will make him a key member of the Toronto frontcourt.

The Raptors built a champion on the back of insanely efficient guard play, but with so many new faces in the frontcourt, games will be one and lost in the paint this season. Long underrated by the rest of the NBA, Boucher appears closer than anticipated to making his 2021 debut and showing the world at large the type of player he is.