Chris Tomasson of the Akron Beacon-Journal writes that the Cavs and Sonics are waiting to see who blinks first in the battle over Ruben Patterson. Patterson is a restricted free agent, meaning the SuperSonics have 15 days to match any offer for him and that a ``sign-and-trade deal'' likely would have to be arranged to get him. The Cavs desperately want Patterson. Patterson, a Cleveland native, very much wants to return home.

The Sonics are waiting for a good trade offer from the Cavs, the Cavs are waiting for the Sonics to get desperate. The longer it takes Seattle to remedy the Patterson situation, the longer it takes for them to concentrate on Dallas free agent Calvin Booth.