SCOUTING REPORT

? The Sonics have been something of a Western-style mirror image of the Hornets, winning a few, then abruptly losing several in a row. After winning eight of nine they dropped three of five. They come in hot, however, after snapping a three-game road skid with a 109-98 victory at Philadelphia on Monday. They shot 66.1 percent.

? The Baron Davis-Gary Payton matchup at point guard could be one of the most entertaining of the season. Davis, in his third season, had 24 with nine assists to lead Charlotte's Monday win at New York. Payton, the veteran, had 28 with 11 assists against the Sixers.

? The Hornets are 5-8 all-time at home against Seattle. Last season they lost both series games, 102-94 in Charlotte and 104-102 in Seattle.