Frank Hughes of the News Tribune reports that the Sonics may have a position battle on their hands. Last year, Brent Barry had his best season as a pro, averaging 14.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game while playing beside Gary Payton in the backcourt. This year, Desmond Mason is poised to explode on the scene with his athletic style.

Does coach Nate McMillan go with what worked last year or does he make room for the youngster?

"Brent has done a good job," McMillan said. "He did a good job last season and played well. Mase wants an opportunity and he is working hard. So that is a decision that I have to look at. If Mase is playing well enough to move into that spot, then that is definitely something we have to consider. That is a part of me making the decision and the players respecting that decision and making it work."

While it sounds like McMillan may have decided to go with Mason, there was speculation last season that Mason would take the starting shooting guard position. Ultimately, Mason was not ready and Barry's heady play kept him as the team's starter for 81 games.

"I think there was a lot of talk that they were starting the youth movement and Rashard (Lewis) and Desmond were the focal point of the organization," Barry said. "You can say all those things, but what it ultimately comes down to is getting the experience. There will come a time when Des will become a starter in this league. It might be this year. All in good time those things will happen for Des. If I am still the two-guard here and have to play the backup to Des, I am all for it. But for right now, my focus is to play as well as I can in training camp to show Nate that I can go out there and give him a consistent effort every night."

Both players have their strengths, and weaknesses. Barry is a good outside shooter and this helps free up Payton. His defense is not stellar, though. Mason is an athletic defender/slasher, but his outside shot is lacking.

"I will give them both opportunities," McMillan said. "It is a matter of what is best for the team, what makes us comfortable."