Carlos Boozer came to the Los Angeles Lakers after the team was awarded the amnesty claim. He began the season as the team’s starting power forward, but became regulated to the bench as the season wore on.
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Despite the decreased role, Boozer remained professional and a veteran presence on a team full of young players. He discussed his season while also expressing an interest in returning with the Lakers during his exit interview, according to Los Angeles Times’ Mike Bresnahan:
Carlos Boozer says he's interested in coming back to the Lakers "If we had a team that could compete."
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) April 16, 2015
Boozer believes there are pieces to build upon as he specifically praised rookie Jordan Clarkson via Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
Carlos Boozer on Jordan Clarkson: "He might have been the steal of the draft. Kid's a star."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) April 16, 2015
Carlos Boozer on Jordan Clarkson: “He might be a baby Westbrook for all we know.”
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) April 16, 2015
The Lakers enter the off-season looking to fill plenty of roster spots. With Boozer in the later stages of his career, he will likely be coming off the bench for whatever team wants his services. Boozer enjoyed his time with the Lakers especially bonding with his teammates and spending time with them off the court.
Boozer started in 26 games for the Lakers and played in a total of 71. He averaged 11.8 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. While the numbers were below his career marks, he proved to be an excellent piece in the front court depth chart.
The team’s front office will spent the summer figuring out if they want to bring back Boozer. Given his openness to accepting a reduced role, he could be a cheap option for the Lakers and may not take up too much of the team’s cap space.
[divide]Lakers 2015 Exit Interview: Wesley Johnson