Superstar basketball player Vince Carter has been one of the most charitable workers in the NBA.

His Embassy of Hope foundation has encouraged many families experiencing financial or emotional distress.  From donation food and school supplies to funding tutoring for middle-schoolers, Vince’s non-profit organization has done it all.  Likewise, Carter has donated much of his own time and money to various causes throughout the United States and Canada.

This Vince Carter dunk has attained a legendary status.

Carter’s good deeds withstanding, how surprised should Orlando Magic head coach Stan Van Gundy have been when the 8-time All-Star was beat for a back-door layup by J.J. Redick in practice?

Not very.  We all know Carter’s strength and weaknesses.  And yes, Vinsanity’s charitable ways exist on the basketball court, too.  He has always had a penchant for not exhibiting all out hustle on the defensive end of the floor.

But the Magic knew.  So did Van Gundy.  This is all about Van Gundy attempting to set a tone before the season starts - and why not start with the ridiculously talented Carter.  Carter continually says that he wants to “just be part of the team.”  Well, doing that means that you have to play acceptable defense, and not be a liability because you have the ability to score 25-30 points a night.

Last season, the Magic found out more than ever how important it is to keep center Dwight Howard on the floor – and out of foul trouble.  With VC primed and ready to play a big chunk of minutes, he’ll have to do his part to keep his man from getting into the paint.    More than ever, it seems that Vince’s defense will be a more decisive element in his team’s overall success than his offense.

But let’s wait and see if Van Gundy if able to sell Vince on that.  From the looks of one practice, it’s not going to be easy.

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