HIGHLIGHTS: Gary Payton made more shots left-handed (2) than right-handed (1) in the first quarter. ... Brent Barry looked off defenders to create enough room for a left-handed layin at the end of the third quarter.

LOWLIGHTS: A 15-for-40 shooting performance in the first half by the Sonics. If Rashard Lewis (2-for-2) and Jerome James (1-for-1) were subtracted, the Sonics went 12-for-37.

DEFENSE, DEFENSE: Jelani McCoy rejected Vladimir Radmanovic's one-handed attempt and sent the Sonics rookie to the floor in the second quarter. ... Lindsey Hunter took the dribble away from Payton and motored off for a breakaway layin in the third quarter.

CLOTHESLINED: When Desmond Mason flew toward the hoop, Kobe Bryant was called for a flagrant foul in the fourth quarter. Mason went hard to the floor and it took a toll: He missed both free throws.

INJURY REPORT: Center Calvin Booth, who has missed 25 games with ankle tendinitis, is still at least three weeks away from returning, but it could be even longer. Booth is optimistic. He has been working in the pool, lifting and shooting on his own. If the pain remains, Booth said he might consider surgery.

NEXT UP: Boston, KeyArena, tomorrow at 7 p.m.