(Toronto) Quebecer Chris Boucher is back with the Toronto Raptors, just in time.
The 28-year-old Montrealer missed the entire preparatory schedule after breaking the index finger of his left hand in training. Boucher said after the morning warm-up that he was given the green light to return to play Wednesday night as a curtain-raiser of the season against the Washington Wizards.
It will be the Torontonians’ first regular season game at Scotiabank Arena since February 28, 2020 – 600 days ago.
“I have the opportunity to show people what I’m up to, but I also think it’s great to be able to play in front of family and friends,” said Boucher. When we were in Tampa, and although I felt like I was having a good season, I couldn’t play in front of my family and the fans.
“I can’t wait to get back on track and help this team reach their goal,” he added.
The Raptors were forced into exile in Tampa, Florida, their home in the latest campaign because of health protocols and travel restrictions established to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
Boucher averaged 13.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game last season. He made a two-season, US $ 13.5 million pact last year and will become an unrestricted free agent following the conclusion of this campaign.