The Glove still has a few gallons left in his gas tank.

IS THAT THE SAME OLD GLOVE?
Remember last season, when Gary Payton ditched his surly demeanor and emerged as a team leader, taking the young Sonics under his wing and into the playoffs? Sweet. But it appears only money buys GP's happiness. So when the Sonics failed to extend his contract, Payton rebelled. The fallout: The train of progress for Desmond Mason, Rashard Lewis and Vladimir Radmanovic might get detained, if not derailed.

STARTING FIVE
Despite his chronic moodiness, Gary always makes his numbers. Still, the Sonics' inexperienced front line jeopardizes their trip to the playoffs.

Pacific Division

1. Kings

2. Lakers

3. Clippers

4. Blazers

5. Sonics

6. Suns

7. Warriors

Scouting Report Index

Vladimir Radmanovic, PF: Gotta get him on the floor somewhere
Rashard Lewis, SF: Big contract carries big expectations. Is he game?
Jerome James, C: Well, it's either him or Calvin Booth. Scary, huh?
Brent Barry, SG: Holds off Mason until maybe, oh, December
Gary Payton, PG: Had a career high in assists (9.0 apg) in 2001-02

BENCH
Mason and Predrag Drobnjak earned their minutes last season. Kenny Anderson's reward for reviving his career in Boston -- backing up GP.

GLOBAL VIEW
Radmanovic (Yugo.) tallest (6'10")
of top 20 three-point shooters.

FREEWHEELIN' WITH WALTON
Gary, make us believe it's about the team. But I'm not holding my breath.

This article will appear in the November 11 issue of ESPN The Magazine.