Carlos Boozer

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

Boozer's relationship with Cleveland turned turbulent following the 2003–04 season. The Cavaliers held an option to keep him for one year at $695,000 or let him become a restricted free agent. An understanding was reportedly reached for a six-year deal worth approximately $39 million. However, when the Cavaliers released him from his contract to make him a free agent, the Utah Jazz offered a six-year, $70 million contract that Cleveland chose not to match due to salary cap constraints. On July 30, 2004, Boozer officially signed with the Jazz. Cavs owner Gordon Gund stated he decided to trust Carlos and show respect, which he felt was not returned. Boozer denied making a firm commitment, stating, 'There was no commitment,' though he later claimed his original intent was to re-sign until learning negotiations could lead to a tampering investigation against Cleveland.

In Their Own Story

During his two seasons in Cleveland, Boozer proved himself as a reliable interior presence. In his rookie year, he averaged 10.0 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, establishing his value early. The following season saw a significant jump in production, as he posted averages of 15.5 points and 11.4 rebounds per game. These numbers showcased his potential as a starting power forward capable of controlling the glass and scoring consistently. Despite this on-court success, the off-court drama surrounding his contract negotiation defined his departure. The situation escalated when the Cavaliers released him from his deal, leading to a bidding war where Utah's $70 million offer proved too much for Cleveland to match under their salary cap limitations.

Reader's Guide

Carlos Boozer played for the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2002 to 2004. He was selected with the 35th overall pick in the 2002 NBA draft. His rookie season (2002–03) saw him average 10.0 points and 7.5 rebounds per game. In his second year (2003–04), he improved to 15.5 points and 11.4 rebounds per game. His departure occurred after the 2003–04 season when the team released him from a contract option, making him a restricted free agent. The Cavaliers did not match a six-year, $70 million offer sheet from the Utah Jazz. This led to Boozer signing with the Jazz on July 30, 2004, ending his time in Cleveland.

Did You Know?

• Boozer was selected with the 35th overall pick in the 2002 NBA draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers.
• Cleveland released him from his contract to make him a restricted free agent after the 2003–04 season.
• The Utah Jazz offered Boozer a six-year, $70 million contract that Cleveland chose not to match due to salary cap considerations.
• Boozer officially signed with the Jazz on July 30, 2004.
• Cleveland owner Gordon Gund claimed he decided to trust and show respect to Boozer, who he felt did not return that trust.