From rock star to rock-solid: thanks to injuries and unmet expectations, Vince Carter no longer creates a stir at every stop. But he's healthier, wiser and determined to return the Raptors to the playoffs.(NBA)

Much has changed. Nearly four years ago, when the Raptors traveled to Boston for a run-of-the-mill regular-season game, dozens of fans awaited the team's arrival at its downtown hotel. Never mind that it was early March, with the temperature in the teens. Never mind that it was around 3 a.m. Folks were willing to risk frostbite and bags under the eyes for a glimpse, a photo or maybe an autograph from the NBA's fastest-rising superstar, Vince Carter.

Back then, just two weeks had passed since All-Star weekend in Oakland, where Carter's through-the-legs, windmill, 360-degree performance in the slam-dunk contest electrified the NBA and the sports world in general. ...