Overview

• The 32-year-old made his second straight preseason start at power forward and posted 19 points and nine rebounds in 23 minutes against his former team, as Boston lost 107-105 after a rough fourth quarter.
• He confronted PJ Hall to shield 19-year-old Hugo Gonzalez following contact on a blocked shot, later saying he considers the rookie his responsibility.
• Head coach Joe Mazzulla praised Boucher’s energy, work ethic and team-first approach, emphasizing his impact beyond box-score production.
• Boucher signed a one-year veteran’s minimum deal after seven seasons in Toronto, helping fill frontcourt needs and offering leadership to a younger group.
• Gonzalez is earning defensive trust and pushing for rotation minutes, with Mazzulla rejecting reports of a language barrier and noting the rookie communicates clearly.