NBA MIP Leading Candidates: Chris Boucher, Toronto Raptors
The Toronto Raptors have struggled this season, partly due to the loss of multiple players over the offseason. Two of the big names that the team lost were Serge Ibaka (who signed with the Clippers) and Marc Gasol (who signed with the Lakers).
However, while this may have impacted the team overall, the loss of the two big men and underperformance of Aron Baynes has seen Chris Boucher have a solid season.
Boucher has elevated his offensive game, as more playing time has seen the 28-year-old leap from 6.6 points to 13.5 points per game, while also taking a leap in the rebounding department from 4.5 boards to 6.3 boards per contest.
His offensive game has not been the only improvement, as Boucher’s defensive game has also taken a positive turn.
Boucher’s block numbers have doubled, increasing to 2.1 blocks per game, as he provides the Raptors with not only solid rim protection, but also good defense around the perimeter. While still only playing bench minutes, an increase in minutes could see Boucher’s numbers improve even more.
The 28-year-old has been a light in an otherwise darkened season for the Raptors, who have failed to capture their championship form from years prior.