The Seattle Sonics have no intention of trading their leading scorer and co-captain, Ray Allen.  On the contrary, the team is working on a deal that will lock up the shooting guard through the 2009-10 season.

Sonics' GM Rick Sund began a discussion with Allen's agent about a 5-year contract extension that could pay the 4-time all-star as much as $100.5 million.

Sund characterized this as "philosophical talks" and the process could wear on for some time to come.

Lon Babby, the player's agent, is expected to fly to Seattle in two weeks to talk to the Sonics and exchange contract proposals.

"We're hopeful we can sit down and talk with Ray and get some type of extension done before next season," said Sund.

The Sonics would commit more than $70 million to Allen, according to reports, but the team may balk at a maximum deal that would pay $100.5 million.

31 NBA players have maximum contracts but teams are in cost-cutting mode and are hesitant to max players out.

"You're going to see less and less of those $100 million contracts being thrown around," said a Western Conference GM. "Unless you're one of the handful of guys competing for the MVP (award), then (teams) have to ask themselves, is he worth it?"