What to expect from Carlos Boozer?

            On Thursday July 17 the Los Angeles Lakers claimed Carlos Boozer off waivers from the Chicago Bulls, who used the amnesty clause on the veteran power forward. Nine teams entered a “blind bid” for Boozer’s services. Los Angeles was the winner with a bid of $3.25 million dollars. After paying the bid, Los Angeles also undertakes the remains of Boozer’s $16.8 million dollar contract with Chicago.

            Members of the Los Angeles front office, according to ESPN, have recognized Boozer as “an established veteran and a proven All-Star who will be a welcome addition to our team.” The two-time All-Star has played for Cleveland, Utah and most recently Chicago over his twelve seasons in the NBA. Boozer, an NCAA champion with Duke back in 2001, was also a part of the 2008 Gold Medal USA Olympic Men’s Basketball Team. Since his rookie season back in 02’-03’, Boozer has been a top ten player in field goal percentage seven times. Boozer has also found himself in the top ten for rebounding five times since his rookie campaign.

            Los Angeles very well may have signed Boozer as an attempt to fill in the void left behind by forward Pau Gasol. Gasol, a two-time NBA Champion with the Lakers, signed with the Chicago Bulls during this free agency period. The Lakers also seek help down low from Boozer. Boozer, who has always been praised for his strong post game, looks to help LA improve on the boards. Los Angeles ranked 25^th in the NBA in rebounds per game (41.0 RPG). In this year’s NBA Draft, the Lakers signed Kentucky forward Julius Randle with the seventh overall pick. Boozer can also serve as a mentor to the young big man and help him along in his development as an everyday starter.

            So what can Los Angeles fans expect from Boozer in the upcoming season? Entering his thirteenth season in the NBA, Boozer is in the latter years of his career and his explosiveness and ability will serve as a question mark for the Lakers personnel. Boozer also did not end his career in Chicago on the highest note, posting some of his career-lows statistically last season. Boozer had the lowest point per game and rebound per game averages since his rookie season (13.7 PPG / 8.3 RPG). Boozer also hit a career-low in field goal percentage last season (45.6%).

            Lakers fans can only hope that Boozer makes a turnaround this season and helps contribute to a roster full of new faces looking to bounce back from a nightmarish 2013-2014 season in which they went 27-55.