Over the past few weeks, Vince Carter has talked about his contract situation several times and barely ever cracked a smile. But yesterday, Carter nearly busted his gut when told of the comments Nets owner Bruce Ratner had made on Wednesday regarding his situation.

Ratner said he thinks it is "very important" for the Nets to sign Carter to an extension during the summer, if not before that. Carter has the ability to opt out of the final year of his contract when this season ends. Unless he accepts a new deal first, he is expected to do so. But Ratner said the Nets' "intent is to sign Vince."

After first saying, "I have nothing to say," Carter couldn't hold back his feelings. With a wide grin on his face, Carter said, "I mean, it's great to hear, believe me. To have the support of the owner, who wants you back and thinks you're an important part of the team, it's a great feeling."

When told that Ratner also said he'd be willing to pay a luxury tax in order to keep Carter on the Nets, the star guard deadpanned, "That's another good thing to hear," before bursting out in laughter.