This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Former Jazz forward Carlos Boozer got his walking papers from the Bulls today, as Chicago amnestied the 32-year-old and his $16.8 million salary. Boozer spent four seasons in Chicago after leaving Utah as a free agent. He averaged 15.5 points and nine rebounds a game for the Bulls. But the end of last year, his minutes—particularly late in games—were being eaten up by sixth-man Taj Gibson. Combine that with Boozer's defensive struggles and his substantial cap hit, and the Bulls' decision was made. "Carlos epitomized professionalism in everything he did for the Bulls both on the court, and in the community, during his time here in Chicago," Bulls general manager Gar Forman said in a release. "Over the last four seasons, Carlos' productivity helped elevate our team to another level. I have nothing but respect for Carlos, and certainly wish him the best as he moves forward." Before any one moves forward, though, feel free to take a step back and stroll down memory lane with this letter from former Cavs owner Gordon Gund, written after Boozer signed with the Jazz in 2004. — Aaron Falk