Celtics Add Depth by Signing Chris Boucher and Trading Georges Niang
The Boston Celtics made significant roster changes this week, enhancing their frontcourt while improving salary flexibility. In a one-two move that caught the attention of NBA fans, the team traded forward Georges Niang to the Utah Jazz and signed free agent center Chris Boucher to a one-year deal.
🔁 Niang Traded Back to Utah
The first transaction saw Boston send Georges Niang back to a familiar home—the Utah Jazz, where he previously played from 2017 to 2021. In exchange, the Celtics received rookie forward RJ Luis Jr. along with additional draft capital. Boston also included two second-round picks in the trade, which helps further loosen their salary cap.
Niang, 32, was acquired last year in the Kristaps Porzingis trade with the Atlanta Hawks and was due $8.2 million this upcoming season. His departure opens the door for younger, lower-cost options and allows Boston to reconfigure its rotation.
For Utah, Niang is a reliable stretch forward who previously made an impact with the team, averaging 5.5 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 41.1% from beyond the arc during his previous stint. His return adds veteran experience and floor spacing to a Jazz roster deep in rebuild mode.
✅ Chris Boucher Signs 1-Year, $3.3M Deal with Boston
Shortly after finalizing the Niang trade, the Celtics announced the signing of Chris Boucher, who recently became a free agent after leaving the Toronto Raptors. The one-year contract is valued at $3.3 million, giving the Celtics a low-risk, high-upside veteran option for their frontcourt rotation.
Boucher, 32, is a two-time NBA champion and is entering his ninth season in the league. Known for his energy, shot-blocking, and perimeter shooting, Boucher offers the Celtics a versatile big who can stretch the floor and protect the rim.
In the 2024–25 season, Boucher averaged:
- 10.0 points per game
- 4.5 rebounds
- 17.2 minutes per game
- 36.3% from three-point range
Having previously played for both the Golden State Warriors and Toronto Raptors, Boucher brings playoff experience and the kind of interior toughness Boston badly needs.
🧱 Why Boston Needed Frontcourt Reinforcements
The Celtics’ frontcourt depth was hit hard this offseason. After their 2024 championship run:
- Kristaps Porzingis was traded to Atlanta.
- Luke Kornet signed with the San Antonio Spurs.
- Al Horford, still a free agent, is reportedly close to signing with the Golden State Warriors.
That left Neemias Queta and recent signing Luka Garza as the only viable center options on the roster—both of whom are young and relatively unproven.
With Boucher’s arrival, head coach Joe Mazzulla now has a reliable veteran to plug into the rotation. His ability to play both the 4 and 5 positions, switch defensively, and hit outside shots gives Boston flexibility in how they structure lineups.
🧠 Strategic Moves for Cap and Roster Balance
By offloading Niang and bringing in Boucher on a shorter, cheaper deal, Boston has:
- Improved its salary cap situation
- Added a productive veteran at a reasonable price
- Opened up room for younger players like RJ Luis Jr. to develop
Celtics management appears to be balancing win-now mode with roster sustainability, keeping an eye on the upcoming 2025–26 free agency class while maintaining championship aspirations for the current season.
🏀 What’s Next for the Celtics?
While the signing of Chris Boucher addresses some frontcourt issues, the Celtics may still look to:
- Add another big via trade or free agency
- Monitor Al Horford’s decision closely
- Explore summer league or G-League standouts for rotational depth
With stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown entering their primes, and Boucher offering added firepower off the bench, Boston continues to make smart, calculated moves in preparation for another deep playoff run.
