The injury bug continues to do damage to the Toronto Raptors. Right as the Raptors got a number of key players back, lanky big man Chris Boucher sustained a left knee injury in Wednesday's contest against the Brooklyn Nets. Luckily, Boucher only suffered a sprained MCL and not a major injury that will definitely knock him out for the season, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium.
Boucher's “return timetable will be based on rehab process.”
This is a tough blow given the Raptors' lack of strong depth in the frontcourt after losing Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol in the offseason. Pascal Siakam is still in place as the 4, but Aron Baynes has been a disappointment at center. Khem Birch could see a bigger opportunity, as could 10-day contract holder Freddie Gillespie.
The undrafted Boucher is in the midst of a breakout this season, a testament to his perseverance and the Raptors' ability to develop players. Just look at Siakam, Fred VanVleet, and OG Anunoby.
Boucher is averaging 13.6 points, 6.7 boards, 1.1 assists, and 1.9 blocks in 24.0 minutes per game. His 3-point attempts have increased considerably from 1.9 to 3.8 per game, but his shooting clip got better and is up to an impressive 38.9%. The big man has been a revelation this season and should be part of Toronto's plans moving forward.
The Raptors are currently in the 12th spot in the Eastern Conference with a 25-34 record. They are within striking distance of the play-in tournament, but Chris Boucher's injury is a setback, even if it's not a major one.
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