The only thing worse than the Nets' 112-101 loss to the Celtics was the injury that came with it. Vince Carter sprained his right ankle when he landed on Paul Pierce's foot after a dunk and hobbled out of the arena after the game on crutches, wearing a protective boot.

Oddly, Carter was one of the only Nets smiling, but it could be awhile before he plays again. X-rays were negative and Carter did not think it was a high ankle sprain, but the Nets won't know more until he is thoroughly examined today.

"It's just one of those freak accidents that you hope is not bad," said Jason Kidd. "It could be severe, it could be mild."