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[Saba Sports News] On Monday, it was announced that the Toronto Raptors will retire Vince Carter’s number 15 jersey, honoring one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
The ceremony is set for November 2, during a game against the Sacramento Kings—a particularly notable matchup, as the Raptors’ all-time leading scorer, DeMar DeRozan, will be on the opposing team.
Carter, who spent six and a half seasons with the Raptors, quickly became an NBA icon. Known as “half-man, half-amazing,” he helped put the Raptors on the map. However, his legacy with the team is complicated. His departure from Toronto wasn’t graceful, as he reportedly tanked his trade value to force an exit—an action that left a sour taste for many fans.
It’s no surprise, then, that some within the Raptors organization aren’t thrilled that Carter’s jersey will be retired before Kyle Lowry’s. According to TSN’s Josh Lewenberg, many felt that Lowry, arguably the greatest player in franchise history, should have been the first to receive the honor.
However, Lowry is still an active player, expected to play his 19th season as the Philadelphia 76ers’ backup point guard. With Lowry’s retirement potentially years away, the team’s decision to honor Carter now may have been inevitable.
Despite the bitterness of Carter’s departure, his impact on the franchise can’t be denied. And while many agree Lowry deserves the highest recognition, it seems the Raptors are ready to close the book on old wounds and give Carter his due.