Vince Carter’s relationship with the city of Toronto may finally be repaired.
Carter was acquired by the Raptors on draft day in 1998, won the Rookie of the Year award, and he made the All-Star team in all but his rookie season with Toronto. Though the team was initially successful and made the playoffs three straight seasons with Carter, Air Canada wasn’t long for the city and wanted out when things started falling apart. He was eventually traded to the Nets, and he was heavily booed every time he returned to play a game in the city. The fans just never forgave him for leaving and for saying he didn’t work as hard as he could have.
Now that he is 38 and close to retirement, it seems like Toronto has finally forgiven Carter for leaving. The Raptors played a tribute video to Vince during Wednesday’s Raptors-Grizzlies game as part of their recognition for the 20th anniversary team. Despite initially booing, the fans eventually gave Carter a standing ovation.
Carter was moved by the fan reaction and tribute, and he even cried. The reception was well deserved, and it’s about time the fans forgave him.
