Dribble Dilemma

Injuries to Luke Ridnour and Ronald "Flip" Murray have compelled Sonics management to consider stuffing their faces with the guaranteed $1 million contract of Rick Brunson.

The Sonics signed Brunson to be the backup point guard, but a chronic foot injury has confined him to the bench. If you happened to take a crap during a Sonics game this season, you may have missed him--he's played only four minutes. And he's not expected back until February.

Starter Luke Ridnour has a bruised chest that's causing nausea. The date of his return is TBD. Until now, the Sonics have relied on "Flip" Murray to dribble the ball about when Ridnour's out, but it's not Murray's best talent. He's a scorer. Now, after making like Hadrian's Wall and having a Celtic run into him, he's day-to-day with several dislocated fingers.

Who's left? Collegiate star Mateen Cleaves, but he can't play the point for an entire game--nor would the Sonics want him to, since he can't shoot or defend. Cleaves' only apparent talent is his ability to slice into the lane and try off-balance scoop shots, which go through the basket about half the time. Nothing to sniff at, but not something you can run an offense around.

If Ridnour isn't cleared to play soon, the Sonics may have to release Brunson and sign someone healthy. But they'll have to pay Brunson's $1 million salary anyway, since his contract is guaranteed. Bad news for the Sonics, but shrewd negotiating by Brunson--Howard Schultz doesn't offer guaranteed contracts to his other employees.