Celtics Deal Big Man to Jazz as Trade Deadline Approaches
The Boston Celtics have made a significant move as the NBA trade deadline approaches. Reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania confirm that the Celtics have agreed to trade reserve center Chris Boucher to the Utah Jazz. The specific terms of the trade remain undisclosed at this time.
Celtics Trade Chris Boucher
Before the trade deadline on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET, Boucher sat out Boston’s last two games due to personal reasons. His time with the Celtics was limited, as he played only nine games, accumulating just 94 minutes on the court. During this brief stint, he managed to score 21 points, grab 18 rebounds, and record seven blocked shots.
Background on Boucher’s Tenure
Signed in July to strengthen the Celtics’ frontcourt, the 33-year-old center struggled to find a consistent role. He quickly fell out of the rotation under head coach Joe Mazzulla and saw limited playing time. His last appearance before the trade was a garbage-time cameo against the Sacramento Kings, marking his first game since November 23.
Further Trades and Roster Changes
In an additional move, the Celtics are expected to finalize a trade involving guard Anfernee Simons. He will be exchanged for veteran center Nikola Vucevic of the Chicago Bulls. This deal also includes a swap of second-round draft picks and reflects the Celtics’ strategic adjustments within their lineup.
Simons was acquired earlier this season in the trade that sent Jrue Holiday to Portland. He has played a pivotal role as a sixth man, participating in all 49 games played so far this season.
Impact on the Roster
The trade of Boucher will potentially create two open spots on the Celtics’ 15-man roster, unless Utah sends a player in return as part of the deal. The Celtics will need to fill at least one of these positions within the next 14 days.
This trade marks the second collaboration between the Celtics and the Jazz since Austin Ainge, Boston’s former assistant general manager, took the helm of Utah’s personnel department last June. The previous trade included forward Georges Niang relocating to the Jazz before Boston signed Boucher.
- Player traded: Chris Boucher
- Trade destination: Utah Jazz
- Trade deadline: Thursday at 3 p.m. ET
- Boucher’s Celtics stats: 9 games, 21 points, 18 rebounds, 7 blocks
- Additional trade: Anfernee Simons to Chicago Bulls for Nikola Vucevic
