The Sonics won't have to worry about All-Star Chris Webber (sprained right ankle) when they play Sacramento tonight in both teams' season-opener. But Seattle has its own injuries woes, which are likely to make Webber's absence moot.

Yesterday, Calvin Booth watched practice from the sidelines with his right ankle taped up. Seattle's new center suffered the injury during Sunday's practice. But the Sonics received good news concerning Vin Baker, who missed the final two exhibition games with lower-back spasms. Baker participated in his first practice in several days and wasn't hampered by his injury.

"Today is the first day I (felt) contact and it felt good," Baker said. "So I'm excited about (tonight)."

Coach Nate McMillan will wait until close to game time before making a decision on Baker and Booth. However, Booth, along with Baker, intends to play.

"I think I'll be ready to play," Booth said.