THIN VIN

His body is not as pudgy, but that does not necessarily mean his game is in shape. If the Sonics are going to find success, Baker needs to find a way to be productive.

FIRST MONTH

November is brutal for the Sonics, and it could set the tone for the remainder of the season. Their first five games are against playoff teams, 13 of the first 18 are against the league's elite and nine of their first 18 are on the road.