Maybe the most intriguing player returning for Seattle is Chris Wilcox. If the 6-10 power forward plays to his potential he could be a big part of the team’s success this year. But last year was kind of a roller coaster ride for the University of Maryland product. Disappearing acts followed monster games by Wilcox, as he continues to learn what it takes to be a consistent performer in the NBA.
But as the Sonics switch to a team that emphasizes defense and versatility, Wilcox could be a key cog in helping Seattle make that the paradigm shift. With veterans Nick Collison and Kurt Thomas vying for playing time, the Sonics are deep at this position.

Front runners

Chris Wilcox (6-10, 235, 6th year)
We know a couple things about Wilcox: He can jump out of the gym, runs the floor well for a big man and is one of the best finishers in the league. But what we haven’t seen from Wilcox is a polished, low-post game and a solid defensive presence inside for Seattle. However, you have to remember Wilcox is just 24 years old. He stayed healthy last season and started in 81 games, averaging a respectable 13.5 points and 7.7 rebounds. He shot 53% from the floor and 68 % from the field. But with Ray and Rashard gone Seattle needs to get more from Wilcox inside.

Pros: He’s long and has the ability to be a good weak-side defender and scorer. He runs the floor well, allowing him to get easy baskets in transition. And for a big man he has soft hands and is a quick jumper.

Cons: Needs to refine his low-post game and become a more consistent scorer inside. He could also get to the foul line more. He only averaged 4.4 foul shots a game last season. But his foul shots should go up with more field goal attempts this season. Wilcox averaged about 10 shots a game last year.

Nick Collison (6-10, 255, 4th year)
Collison is a true lunch-pail guy, and the type of role player every team needs. He does a lot of the dirty work, setting screens, rebounding and defending inside. But Collison’s basketball acumen also tends to make you forget that he was the Big 10 player of the year for Kansas and can score in a lot of different ways. There’s a reason Collison was invited to try out for Team USA, and it’s not because Coach K needed an extra body. Collison is a gamer. He averaged 9.6 points and 8.1 rebounds last year. Collison started 56 games, and Seattle was 22-34 in games he started.

Pros: Collison’s skill set makes it hard to keep him on the bench. He’s got a smooth, mid-range jump shot and nifty moves inside to get his shot off amongst the big boys. He plays hard and seems to do the little things to help Seattle win.

Cons: Collison is not the biggest guy and tends to get overpowered against elite big men. He doesn’t wow you with his athleticism, although he seems to be a decent athlete.

In the mix

Kurt Thomas (6-9, 235, 13th year)
Getting the veteran big man from Phoenix was a nice pick up for the Sonics, and helps solidify the team inside. Thomas is known for his defense and physical play inside. Last year Tomas was Phoenix’s best defender against the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA playoffs. He averaged 4.6 points, 5.7 rebounds and 18 minutes a game. Thomas also started five playoff games, averaging 7.5 points and 4.9 rebounds a contest.

Pros: Thomas can still play and will provide Seattle with solid minutes at the power forward or center spot. He will give Seattle some physical play inside, and also can serve as a mentor for the team’s younger big men.

Cons: With any player entering the twilight of his career you worry about injuries and their ability to sustain their level of play over the long haul. The Sonics will probably monitor his minutes and make sure they are not overusing Thomas during the year.

Will take a look at the final roster position —centers — on Saturday.