The idea that Carrot is just a hype tool for the minks came from people misunderstanding that the relationship was actually the other way around all along. Oda was actually using the mink powers and abilities to make Carrot more significant. She was the first mink we saw on Zou. The first mink to use electro. The first mink to use unique gauntlet weapons. The first mink to float. The
only mink to super jump. The first mink to use Sulong.
Whilst Carrot showcasing these abilities had the added effect of hyping up the minks in general, the one who got the most hype was always Carrot since she was consistently the one actually revealing the skills to us for the first time which will usually be the most memorable.
When you think of Sulong, the first thing you most likely think about is Carrot. Whether you like her or not. I don't believe that's unintentional. Compare how Carrot's Sulong was showcased to how Inu and Neko had theirs. Other than her, they had the most hype to their new forms and even then they can't compare to the iconic scene Oda created for Carrot's transformation.
As we know, there were plenty of other opportunities to show off Sulong. Heck, Pedro could've instead died from Sulong exertion whilst holding off Perospero and BM. Would've shown how powerful it could be but also the danger it presented.
There's a reason why Carrot's always the special one. Even if you don't think she's joining the crew. She's the most important mink.
Oda didn't create a character, give her one of the highest (non-straw hat) total panel counts in the entire series, all for the sake of hyping a half chapter battle sequence for fodder, that ended in failure.