What’s Next For Boozer?

The Utah Jazz’s Carlos Boozer will decide today whether or not he should play out his contract option for next season which will pay $12.7 million or if he will test the open market.

Since Boozer’s rookie year (2003), his statistics have steadily increased…..until the ‘08-’09 season:

• 2002-2003 = 10 ppg/7.5 rpg
• 2003-2004 = 15.4 ppg/11.4 rpg
• 2004-2005 = 17.8 ppg/ 9 rpg
• 2005-2006 = 16.3 ppg/8.6 rpg
• 2006-2007 = 20.9 ppg/ 11.7 rpg
• 2007-2008 = 21 ppg/10.4 rpg
• 2008-2009 = 16 ppg/ 10.4 rpg

Let’s now look at the facts. Boozer is scheduled to make $12.7 million next year in the option, but he is reportedly asking $13-15 million per year in a new contract. The economy has taken a turn for the worse, as you all know, and Boozer’s chances of getting his desired amount looka bleak.

I am a firm believer of not asking for more money unless your season was consistent and up to your personal norm. This is not the case here. Boozer’s statistics dropped off from previous seasons, which could seriously pose a detriment to his chances.

So with that, I say stay with the Jazz for the last year, collect the $12.7 million, have a solid and explosive year, and then hit the open market.