Spurs assistant P.J. Carlesimo, nine seasons removed from the Latrell Sprewell stigma, feels he owns a legitimate shot at being hired as Sonics head coach. Though I've got to wonder how much a wife, who's been ill (she's fine now), and two small children will factor into a decision to take a job that'll have the family in Seattle next season and perhaps Oklahoma City or Kansas City thereafter.

Carlesimo and newly installed Sonics GM Sam Presti, fresh out of San Antonio, enjoy a solid relationship. But does it best the bond shared by the former Spurs assistant GM and Rick Carlisle?

If it weren't for Carlisle, says a source, Presti's value may still be unappreciated by executive VP/coach Gregg Popovich and senior VP/GM R.C. Buford. San Antonio's principal savants.