NBA Rumors: Teams That Need to Pursue Vince Carter Once He's Waived

The Phoenix Suns are poised to waive the aging Vince Carter, as he does not fit into their future or financial plans.

Once Carter hits the open market, teams in need of a scoring bunch will flock his way. He is no longer the kid once compared to Michael Jordan, but he is still one of the more automatic scorers in the game.

Now that the shooting guard will be available at a steep discount, expect an array of opportunities to come his way.

Chicago Bulls

The Chicago Bulls are in need of a shooting guard who can help alleviate at least some of the scoring burden off of Derrick Rose's shoulders. Carter would do just that.

On defense, Carter isn't especially adept, but on offense, he gives the Bulls two backcourt threats and makes it more difficult for defenses to double-team Rose without there being strong consequences.

While Carter would prove to be a solution strictly for the interim, he is an instant upgrade over Keith Bogans. Additionally, being that Carter will be fresh off of being waived, he will come cheaper than outright free agents like Jason Richardson or Nick Young.

If the price is right, and it probably will be, the Bulls need to pursue Carter once he hits the open market.

New York Knicks

The New York Knicks are only interested in handing out one-year contracts as they prepare themselves for next summer's free-agency frenzy, and once Carter hits the open market, he will be a player who would be amenable to a one-year deal.

Aside from needing players open to one-year deals, the Knicks need some firepower on the perimeter. While New York has entertained the idea of Caron Butler, Carter will come cheaper and once again, will be amenable to the team's one-year terms.

Bringing Carter to the Big Apple will not help resolve New York's defensive issues, but it certainly would make their outside offense a lot more lethal.

Miami Heat

The Miami Heat have essentially been linked to every available free agent, but once Carter hits the open market, he becomes a legitimate option.

Carter is bound to come cheap this time around, which is great news for a Miami team severely handicapped by cap space. Mike Miller was supposed to be the benefactor of an offense that included LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, but injuries kept him from producing.

With Carter, the Heat gain a threat from the outside, as well as take on a player without a terrible contract. If Miami shows a strong interest in Carter, it will certainly pave the way for Miller to be cut via the amnesty clause.

San Antonio Spurs

Now that Carter has become available, the San Antonio Spurs may feel more at ease about sending Richard Jefferson packing.

Carter adds some much needed offense on the perimeter for San Antonio and will come at a fraction of the price the team is paying Jefferson.

Look for the Spurs to be a major player for Carter's services.

You can follow Dan Favale on Twitter here @Dan_Favale.