NBA Free Agency Rumors: Golden State Warriors predicted to land $35,250,000 Toronto Raptors star to support Stephen Curry in title run | NBA News
With the bulk of major NBA free agency moves already in the rearview, the Golden State Warriors have kept things relatively lowkey—until now. A new prediction has added a twist to their offseason narrative, linking them to a familiar name who could bring both experience and tactical value to their frontcourt.Veteran big man Chris Boucher, currently with the Toronto Raptors, is being floated as a potential target for Golden State in free agency. The 32-year-old, who once spent time developing with the Warriors’ G League affiliate in Santa Cruz, could be on track for a Bay Area return in what might be a low-cost, high-upside move.According to Ricky O’Donnell of SBNation, the prediction sees Boucher signing a one-year deal worth $3 million—a price tag that fits Golden State’s financial strategy and fills a roster gap with a versatile stretch big.
Chris Boucher Linked to Golden State Warriors in New Free Agency Prediction
Ricky O’Donnell of SBNation recently released his NBA free agency predictions for 12 best available players on the 2025 market, and one of the standout projections involves the Golden State Warriors bringing back former Santa Cruz Warrior Chris Boucher.“Boucher is still a solid bench big at 32 years old… The Warriors need more stretch bigs, and Boucher would fit well there,” O’Donnell wrote.
Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10) and guard Stephen Curry (30) share a laugh during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center. (Image via D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images)
According to the prediction, Boucher would sign a one-year deal worth $3 million, potentially leaving the Toronto Raptors, the only NBA team he’s consistently played for. Though undrafted, Boucher carved a space for himself in the league, and his early stint with the Warriors—albeit brief—makes him no stranger to Golden State’s culture and system.
What Chris Boucher Brings to the Table
At 32, Boucher remains a valuable bench piece with a skillset that aligns with what the Warriors are missing—particularly in their need for a stretch big who can also defend. He shot 36.3% from three-point range last season, offering valuable floor spacing for a team that thrives on movement and shooting.
Key Attributes:
– Three-point Shooting: Reliable from deep, shooting 36.3% in 2024-25– Defensive Upside: Still provides shot-blocking despite some decline– Length & Switchability: Fits well with Warriors’ defensive schemes– Winning Mentality: Two-time NBA champion, including one title with WarriorsWhile Boucher’s contributions to Golden State’s 2018 title run were minimal, his experience in championship environments could prove beneficial in the locker room and during high-stakes playoff moments.
Why Golden State Makes Sense
The Golden State Warriors are in a transitional phase, looking to retool around Stephen Curry while maintaining financial flexibility. Bringing in a veteran like Boucher on a low-risk, short-term deal aligns with both their tactical needs and cap strategy.He also fits the mold of players the Golden State Warriors have historically valued—versatile, long, and capable of playing within a system without demanding touches.
Potential Deal Breakdown
| Warriors Receive | Raptors Lose |
| Chris Boucher (1 yr, $3M) | Veteran stretch big, 2-time NBA champion |
As free agency continues to unfold, this predicted reunion could be a savvy, under-the-radar move for the Golden State Warriors. It won’t shake up the league, but it could solidify an area of weakness while adding experience and defensive versatility.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers reportedly eyeing $33,075,000 Portland Trail Blazers star to bolster perimeter defense and improve title oddsIf the front office moves forward with this deal, fans may once again see Chris Boucher don the Golden State jersey—this time as a more seasoned and polished contributor ready to help in a meaningful way.
