The Raptors’ 21st season is approaching and it’s set up to be a beauty. With an upgraded roster and the NBA All Star weekend coming to the city there is much for Raptor fans to be excited about.
It’ll also be nice to move on from the 20th anniversary celebrations. There were some great moments that came with the festivities last year. The throw back jerseys and salutes to former players during games were awesome. Having to watch Dwayne Casey talk about the time the Raptors beat the 72-10 Bulls every other commercial break was a bit tough. But that’s what comes with a franchise that hasn’t accomplished much, you’ve got to focus on what little success you’ve had.
Vince Carter’s tribute at the Air Canada was great. Seeing him well up during the ovation tugged at the heartstrings of even the most bitter fan. It felt like there was closure. Carter was sorry and appreciated the fans and we forgave him for the messy exit with the team. Everything was settled and it was time to move on.
But with all the All Star hype coming this year, at some point the debate will return on whether Carter’s number should be retired. The answer is no. Carter put the franchise on the map. He inspired a generation of young Canadians to become the best crop of basketball talent this country has ever seen. But he also quit. He became soft and selfish. Everything associated with his departure was a disaster.
In order for a player to have his number retired there needs to be an overwhelming positive connection with the franchise. Someone who fans can reminisce about and unequivocally say, man I loved that guy.
It just so happens that another former Raptor who embodied the heart and soul worthy of a jersey retirement also wore the number fifteen. As a Toronto Raptor Amir Johnson was everything Canadian sports fans love. A hard-working, blue-collar guy who showed up every night and gave 100% no matter how poorly the team struggled. When most players around the league wouldn’t even consider playing north of the border, Johnson embraced it. Off the court he was Mr. Toronto, wearing Leaf Jerseys to events, buying up all of Drake’s CDs and never once complaining about his mediocre teams or sore ankles.
While Vince Carter had the skill and accolades to deserve the jersey retirement he doesn’t have the heart and soul to make it happen. Amir Johnson has the heart and soul but his in-game statistics aren’t there. Which brings us to the natural solution: joint-jersey retirement.
When both players retire, hang the number fifteen from the rafters of the ACC with Carter and Johnson’s names on the banner. It’s the perfect salute to the greatest star that ever wore a Raptor uniform and one of the greatest quiet leaders the team has ever had.
The joint-jersey retirement will appease everyone. The Carter fans that are adamant his number be retired will get their wish. The Raptor fans who want to acknowledge the Carter legacy but aren’t comfortable with the way things ended will have a reason to justify the number hanging from the ceiling.
Think of the conversations the joint retirement would spark…
Son: Was Vince Carter the greatest Raptor ever?
Dad: He was amazing, son.
Son: Wow, I want to be like Vince Carter.
Dad: Actually, towards the end of his tenure he turned out to be kind of a pussy. Your mother and I would be happier if you became someone like Amir Johnson. But Vince was very good, yes.
Or
Guy From Scarborough: Yo guy Vince Carter was the best player ever. They should take Amir off that banner.
Other guy from Scarborough: Yo Vince was awesome but he quit on the team. Amir is buddies with Drake.
Guy From Scarborough: True. Amir was awesome too. Let’s get a Jamaican patty.
It makes too much sense. An Amir/Vince combo jersey retirement is the way to go. For those who think such a banner would be out of place in the ACC rafters, keep in mind there’s one already hanging for Bon Jovi. We’re good. See you at the ceremony.
