With yesterday's signing of free agent Kenny Thomas to seven-year deal that may run as high as $50 million, coupled with the revelation that Derrick Coleman also is likely to return, it appears the Sixers are willing to play next season essentially with the same cast.

But don't be so sure, cautioned new team president-general manager Billy King.

There's still plenty of time for something to happen before the fun begins in October.

"As I said the first day after the season my number one priority was to re-sign Kenny Thomas," said King at a morning press conference at the First Union Center, which got under way a half hour late while the Thomas signing was being finalized. "But I don't think we're done.

"This is the point it gets exciting, because today's the first day we can start. I hope people are not out there saying we're standing pat."