The Bulls have already decided to amnesty Carlos Boozer, Joe Cowley of the Chicago-Sun Times implied. The article technically does not say Chicago will amnesty Boozer, but it dances around that conclusion. I can’t tell whether that’s intentional vagueness or clumsy writing.
Thankfully, a more credible reporter provides clarity.
Brian Windhorst of ESPN:
Beyond Windhorst’s report, the Bulls already being determined to amnestying Boozer just doesn’t make any sense.
The amnesty window isn’t until July 10-16, and Boozer could be valuable in a trade – especially for Carmelo Anthony. Large expiring contracts, like Boozer’s, often facilitate deals.
If that falls through, he might be amnestied. That would open the door for Chicago to sign someone like Pau Gasol.
There are many options still on the table, including amnestying Boozer. But the Bulls’ pursuit of Gasol when Melo is still their top target shows even they don’t know what will present itself.
It would be foolish to decide now to amnesty Boozer.
That’s also a classy move by the Bulls to keep Boozer in the loop. It’s not necessary, but there’s no good reason not to extend him that courtesy.
I see little chance Boozer returns to Chicago next season (though I definitely wouldn’t rule it out). Most likely, Phil Jackson comes around and accepts Boozer in a Melo sign-and-trade or the Bulls amnesty Boozer. Another trade option could emerge, too.
The Bulls amnestying Boozer could very well happen, but it’s too early to call it a forgone conclusion.
