New York Knicks owner James Dolan has never been shy about making headlines, but his latest revelation about a nearly finalized trade for NBA legend Vince Carter has left fans and analysts stunned. In a shocking claim, Dolan admitted that he hesitated on pulling the trigger on a blockbuster deal due to concerns over Carter’s durability, stating, “I kept waiting for his Achilles tendon to break.”
The Vince Carter Trade That Never Happened
During the early 2000s, Vince Carter was one of the most electrifying players in the NBA. His ability to take over games, paired with his jaw-dropping athleticism, made him a coveted asset for any franchise. According to Dolan, the Knicks were in serious talks to acquire Carter, but concerns over his longevity led the team to back out at the last moment.
“We were close to making the deal, but I just couldn’t shake the feeling that his Achilles was a ticking time bomb,” Dolan reportedly said. “I kept waiting for it to break, and I wasn’t willing to take that risk.”
Missed Opportunity or Smart Decision?
Carter went on to enjoy a long and successful career, playing well into his 40s and becoming one of the most respected veterans in the league. Knicks fans, who have endured decades of questionable front-office decisions, are now left wondering whether this was yet another missed opportunity that could have altered the franchise’s history.
While some may argue Dolan’s caution was warranted, others point to Carter’s longevity as proof that the Knicks once again let a superstar slip through their fingers. The revelation has sparked heated debates across social media, with fans questioning how different the team’s trajectory could have been with Carter in New York.
Knicks’ History of Near-Deals and What Could Have Been
This isn’t the first time the Knicks have been linked to a superstar only for a deal to fall through. From missing out on Stephen Curry in the draft to failing to land marquee free agents, New York’s basketball history is filled with “what if” scenarios. The Vince Carter saga now joins that long list of almost-moves that could have reshaped the team’s fortunes.
Dolan’s Controversial Legacy Continues
James Dolan remains one of the most polarizing owners in professional sports, and his latest comments only add to his legacy of eyebrow-raising decisions. Whether his concerns about Carter were valid or not, this revelation further cements the Knicks’ reputation for questionable front-office moves.
As Knicks fans process yet another “what could have been” moment, one thing is certain—Dolan’s words will continue to fuel conversations about the team’s history of near-misses and their ongoing quest for championship glory.
