Utah trades for Chris Boucher from the Celtics

The The Utah Jazz continued their busy trade deadline extended thursday, acquisition veteran forward Chris Boucher from Boston Celtics as the clock ticks toward the 3:00 PM ET cutoff.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the deal shortly before the deadline, confirming Utah’s latest roster move after the recent blockbuster acquisition of Jaren Jackson Jr. earlier this week.

“Boston Celtics trade Chris Boucher to Utah Jazz, sources tell ESPN,” Charania reported.

The move represents another depth-focused addition for Utah after reshaping its frontcourt with the Jackson deal. While the Jazz gave up significant assets to get Jackson, trading Boucher signals a complementary approach rather than another headline-grabbing swing as Utah rounds out its rotation.

Boucher, 33, signed with Boston last summer after spending seven seasons with the Toronto Raptors. His tenure in Toronto included a key role on the Raptors’ 2019 NBA championship team, where his length and energy off the bench made him a valuable frontcourt contributor.

His role has diminished this season in Boston. Through nine appearances, Boucher averaged 2.3 points and two rebounds per game, both career lows outside of his rookie campaign. He shot 32 percent from the field and 13.3 percent from 3-point range while playing 10.4 minutes per contest, also career lows.

Jazz’s Chris Boucher follows Jaren Jackson Jr.’s blockbuster from the Celtics

Boucher last appeared in the Celtics’ 112-93 win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday, logging just four minutes and scoring three points. His limited role reflected Boston’s deep frontcourt rotation and contributed to the Celtics’ willingness to move him as the deadline approached.

For Utah, Boucher provides frontcourt depth and flexibility behind Jackson and Walker Kessler, especially as the Jazz continue to adjust their lineup after multiple trades. His expiring contract also offers financial maneuverability as the organization evaluates its roster after the deadline.

The Jazz remained one of the league’s most active teams in the days leading up to Thursday, making both big and small moves as they positioned themselves for the rest of the season. Adding Boucher fits that mold, giving Utah another experienced option without compromising future flexibility.

Boston, meanwhile, is clearing roster spots and rotation minutes focused on maintaining depth for a postseason offense.

With the deadline now gone, Utah’s flurry of moves — led by the acquisition of Jackson and the capped Boucher deal — highlight an aggressive roster overhaul as the Jazz look to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term planning.