Vince

Carter

Carter’s career comes to an end after 22 seasons. He was Rookie of the Year in 1999, made eight All-Star teams, and was one of the best dunkers in the history of the sport. He was also one of the best veteran mentors in the league, adding to his professional longevity, and we anticipate seeing more of him in various NBA roles in years to come. In their statement about his retirement, the Hawks wrote, “It’s an honor to the Hawks organization that he completed his Hall-of-Fame career wearing Atlanta across his chest and representing our city.”

“He wants to be in a Raptors uniform right now,” Tanenbaum said. Perhaps that’s not really the case, but since the Raptors haven’t found a trade they like, Carter probably is going to stay put whether he rescinds his demand or not.

“Well, there are only certain players in the NBA whose salaries match, and if you’re going to make a decision to move a guy, if there’s a disgruntled star in the league, there are certain guys who are logical choices,” said Allen. Makes sense, but Carter still doesn’t want to be dealt to the Western Conference.

For now, Carter has only been ruled for at least the next two games, though it’ll likely be longer. A report Thursday had the Knicks offering Allan Houston, Tim Thomas, Jerome Williams, and draft picks for Carter and Jalen Rose. Talks with Portland are believed to have gone cold.

The Blazers then would trade Shareef Abdur-Rahim to New Jersey for Jason Kidd, who has said he doesn’t want to play in Portland but could change his mind if he has a chance to play alongside Carter. For his part, Stoudemire said he didn’t envision going back to Toronto, where he began his career.

That could be a season ender, and give newspapers in Portland and New York a lot less about which to speculate.

Carter is expected to sit tonight, then make his Nets debut on Monday.

We’re still going to think of him as probable, but it sounds like he’ll be out there tonight against Sacramento.

In 13 games, Carter averaged 30.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.2 blocks. He drained 2.3 three-pointers per game, shot 44.4 percent from the floor, and 90.0 percent from the line. Incredible stuff.

Alvin Williams and Vince Carter are in the backcourt, with Michael Curry at small forward, Antonio Davis at center, and probably Chris Bosh at power forward.