Nets send Vince Carter to Magic in trade

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Vince Carter is going home to Orlando, and to the Eastern Conference champion Magic.

The New Jersey Nets dealt the eight-time NBA All Star, who grew up in Daytona Beach and lives in Orlando, and forward Ryan Anderson to the Magic on Thursday for point guard Rafer Alston, shooting guard Courtney Lee and power forward Tony Battie.

The trade gives the Magic another star in a lineup that already includes Dwight Howard and Rashard Lewis. The deal might also convince Hedo Turkoglu, who can opt out of his contract and become a free agent on July 1, to remain with the Magic.

Orlando is hoping Carter, who has averaged 23.5 points over a 10-year pro career, will provide center Dwight Howard with a perimeter scorer who can create his own shot — something they lacked in losing the NBA finals to the Los Angeles Lakers.

It’s also an indication the Magic believe their time is now.

“Vince gives us a veteran, go-to scoring presence, especially at the end of games,” Orlando general manager Otis Smith said in a statement. “Our goal remains the same — to win a championship. Any time you can add an All-Star to help you reach your goals, you have to do it.”

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