NBA: Playoffs-Washington Wizards at Chicago Bulls
NBA: Playoffs-Washington Wizards at Chicago Bulls Reuters

Conflicting reports are coming out of Chicago involving the Bulls’ decision to amnesty power forward Carlos Boozer—a move that will clear cap space for the franchise and chase a big name free agent particularly Carmelo Anthony.

The report was conveyed by Joe Cowley, a staff reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times.

“A source said Wednesday that Boozer’s departure is a “done deal,” adding that Boozer’s camp already has been informed,” stated in the article.

Boozer is owed $16.8M for the 2014-2015 NBA season and the Bulls will clear that much money in their team payroll if the veteran big man is waived via the amnesty provision although they still have to pay him the equal account.

Also from the same report, Cowley mentioned the possibility that the Bulls chase Trevor Ariza, a free agent from the Washington Wizards if they miss out on Melo.

However, Brian Windhorst of ESPN refuted the report also late Wednesday night.

Bulls told Carlos Boozer it's a possibility he will be amnestied or used in a sign-&-trade but have made no final decisions, sources said

— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) July 3, 2014

While there are varying reports on Boozer’s status, Chicago’s intent in the offseason is clear after they invited Anthony to visit Chicago where they tried to woo the star forward to sign with them.

Anthony met with the Bulls management, owner Jerry Reinsdorf, head coach Tom Thibodeau, players Joakim Noah, Derrick Rose and Taj Gibson and even former Bulls player, Scottie Pippen.

If amnestied, Boozers's salary will be off the books although they still have to pay the big man. Boozer will also become a free agent and will be allowed to sign with any other NBA team.

Chicago’s chance for Carmelo Anthony will be rely on their capability to shed off a big salary from their current payroll; the most immediate solution is to finally amnesty the contract of Carlos Boozer.