Vince Carter participated in the Phoenix Suns practice today, which was more of a walk-through of various plays and situations. The team played the last two days and typically would have had the day off, but practiced today so the three new players could get a bit more acclimated. Carter, who wasn't wearing a knee brace, talked about the injury that occurred on November 22 when the Orlando Magic were playing the San Antonio Spurs.
"I did a spin move and did a layup and as I was landing, it was just some excruciating pain and I don't know. They told me there was some swelling under the kneecap at the time and the swelling's come back a little bit, so we're going to see what it is."
Carter will be meeting with the doctor this afternoon to discuss the situation. He remains hopeful he can play when the Suns next take the court on Thursday against the Miami Heat but is taking the long view.
"It will be tough (to not play after being traded), but it's about being smart and it's a long season. We're going to take it step-by-step ... I heal like a young guy, but we'll see what happens."
Coincidentally, Saturday -- which was the day of the trade -- was the day Vince told the Magic he wanted to get an MRI.
Here's a video of the play that Carter says caused the injury to his left knee.
Numbers game
Vince Carter has worn number 15 on his jersey his entire career, but will have to wear 25 for the Suns. 15 is the number worn by Robin Lopez and even if Robin were willing to give it up, Carter said the NBA doesn't allow number swapping like that.
Carter considered other low numbers like 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9, but all of those were taken, as well. Number 8 is worn by Channing Frye and the rest are worn by Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor members. Vince settled for number 25, which he wore once before in an All-star game.
Another victim of the numbers game was center Earl Barron, who was cut by the Suns today, bringing the roster to 13. Barron started six games for the Suns and played in 12. He averaged three points and 3.3 rebounds in 15.3 minutes of action. His 23.5 percent shooting percentage obviously didn't help his chances now that the Suns have Marcin Gortat on the team.
It says a lot about Garret Siler, who's played less than Barron, that he would be retained while Barron is released. Barron played solid defense and was active and aggressive on the glass.
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