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Carter, surging Nets host Bobcats

Jan 17, 2007 - 4:43 PM New Jersey (17-20) at Charlotte (12-24) 7:00 pm EST

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina (Ticker) -- Vince Carter and the New Jersey Nets finally are starting to look like the class of the NBA's worst division.

The Nets shoot for their seventh win in their last nine games when they host the Charlotte Bobcats on Wednesday.

Expected to finish atop the Atlantic Division, New Jersey has struggled out of the gate in 2006-07. In a division where all five teams are below .500, the Nets are tied for first place with Toronto (18-21) and only one game ahead of New York (17-22).

However, New Jersey has been playing better of late, winning six of their last eight games. Carter has been outstanding over that stretch, scoring 22.6 points per contest.

The Nets also have used improved defense and spirited play from journeyman center Mikki Moore, who is averaging 11.0 points per game over his last six outings.

Carter finished with 31 points, six rebounds and six assists Monday as the Nets picked up a 105-95 victory over the Indiana Pacers.

The Bobcats had their three-game winning streak snapped in a 99-91 loss to Milwaukee on Monday.

Emeka Okafor had 17 points and 12 rebounds for Charlotte, which has won three of its last four road games.