The Seattle Supersonics have a difficult schedule coming up in 2007, both on the court and off. The team itself has been totally revamped with the departure of its two All-Stars, Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis, and the arrival of its newest All-Star to-be, this year's #2 draft pick, Kevin Durant. Then there are the teams' new Oklahoma City-based majority owners, led by Clay Bennett, who are seeking to escape their unfavorable contract with Key Arena and move the team (just try guessing where).

This year, Seattle should again contend with Portland for the worst record in the Pacific Division; were it not for the Kevin Garnett-less Minnesota Timberwolves, the Sonics would be the worst team in the entire conference.

Seattle fans are being asked to have patience with the teams' rebuilding process even as their beloved Sonics are wrenched away from them. But there is reason to be hopeful: Seattle's mayor seems committed to keeping the team in Seattle, and the team itself has plenty of promising young athletes who should deliver post-season success in just a few years (barring managerial bungling or serious injuries).

Look for good things from newly-acquired Delonte West and great things from rookie Kevin Durant. Robert Swift's return from injury means Seattle might finally have the frontcourt depth they've been lacking for years, but their Centers are all still untested, and they have a gaping hole at Shooting Guard.

It's going to be a rough year for the Sonics for all involved parties: the players, the ownership, and especially the fans.

But that won't stop me from being excited about the future, rooting for the Sonics in every game they play, and being as emphatic as I can in saying that THE SEATTLE SUPERSONICS SHOULD STAY IN SEATTLE FOREVER!