'I've got to play'

Sonics reportedly looking into options for Anderson

Kenny Anderson averaged 4.5 points in eight preseason games. Jeff Reinking/NBAE/ Getty Images

SEATTLE (AP) -- Kenny Anderson isn't happy with limited minutes behind SuperSonics point guard Gary Payton and has asked his agent to investigate a possible buyout.

"Seattle is a great city, a great organization, but I'm in a situation where I've got to play," said Anderson, a 12-year veteran traded to Seattle over the summer. "Gary Payton is here, a great player who has been here his whole career. Whatever is going to benefit me in the long run, I'm all for it."

Anderson's agent, Jeff Wechsler, didn't return telephone messages from The Associated Press seeking comment.

Seattle general manager Rick Sund declined comment.

The 32-year-old Anderson is in the final year of a contract that will pay him $9.185 million this season. He started last season during Boston's run to the Eastern Conference finals but went to Seattle in the deal that sent Vin Baker to the Celtics.

According to several reports, the SuperSonics are considering whether to buy out Anderson's contract for $6 million. The news was first reported by the Tacoma News Tribune.

Wechsler reportedly is looking for a team to pay Anderson $3 million to make up the difference. Another option, though less likely, would be for Anderson to accept the buyout and sign with another team for the 10-year veteran minimum of $1 million.

"I don't think I'm giving up money," Anderson said. "I'm not doing that."

Playing mostly with Seattle reserves during the preseason, Anderson averaged 4.5 points on 27 percent shooting. Last season, he averaged 9.6 points and 5.3 assists with the Celtics.

Sonics coach Nate McMillan believes Anderson and Payton can coexist, even saying there are situations where both could see action together. But he'll make the decision when it's appropriate.

"I will judge them by what they do on the floor, not by what they've done in the past or anything that shows up in the press," McMillan said.

Anderson said he had believed after arriving in Seattle that he would be traded again before the regular season, but McMillan made plans all along for a lineup that includes both point guards.

"We have a veteran backcourt, and it can be a special season if guys are willing to make sacrifices," McMillan said. "We have to make the best of this. I tell my team all the time, 'Bloom where you're planted."'

 

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