Nets stung by Hornets
 

Vince Carter went retro, sporting a headband for the first time in a game this season and high socks. He ignited the crowd with two driving third-quarter dunks and a season-high 46 points.

The Nets' biggest stars tried to give the Continental Arena fans something to cheer in case it was their last game in the home white, although signs Wednesday night pointed to both sticking around past today's 3 o'clock NBA trade deadline.

But the Nets started their post-All-Star break with another defensive clunker and fell to ex-coach Byron Scott and the Hornets, 111-107.

"There's nothing going on," Thorn said. "I've had a lot of conversations. But I would probably say nothing is going to happen."

Two scenarios that the Nets considered and still may contemplate would involve Carter not having to pack if he's moved and Kidd returning to a former employer.

League sources said the Knicks and Nets discussed a Carter deal that would bring Channing Frye, Jamal Crawford and Malik Rose to this side of the Hudson River.

Kidd to the Los Angeles Lakers was one of the most talked-about deals -- and Los Angeles is actively trying to get the trade done. But the Nets wouldn't give away their franchise player for rookie Jordan Farmar, injured big men Kwame Brown and Chris Mihm, Aaron McKie and draft picks.

"Whatever happens, happens and you move forward," Kidd said. "Everybody's anticipating something. So we'll soon find out."

Through it all, Kidd has remained professional, saying he would like to stay with the Nets. But he wouldn't mind playing for the Los Angeles Lakers.

"I love to play the game no matter if it's here in New Jersey or if it's who everybody is speculating," Kidd said. "Whatever happens, happens. I have no say in it. I'm just an employee."