15 Players the Brooklyn Nets gave up on way too soon
By Tyler Watts
4. Vince Carter
Carter was already a five-time All-Star and one of the best players in the league before arriving in New Jersey. He wanted out of Toronto after the Raptors failed to make the playoffs for two straight years, and they traded him to the Nets for Alonzo Mourning, Aaron Williams, Eric Williams, and two first-round picks.
Vinsanity was fantastic during his four and half seasons with the Nets. He starred alongside Jason Kidd and Richard Jefferson for most of that run as New Jersey made the playoffs in each of the first three years and advanced to the second round twice. Carter averaged 23.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 1.2 steals during his time with the Nets, and he made three All-Star appearances.
The Nets did not make deep playoff runs, but Vinsanity put on a show with the Nets, and he should have his number retired by the franchise. After two years of missing the playoffs and a J-Kidd trade demand, the Nets completely tore down their roster and sent Carter to Orlando.
His production dipped after his time in New Jersey, but he played 11 more years and aged gracefully into the veteran leader coming off the bench. The Nets could have used that player frequently over the next decade, but they let Carter go too soon.