He declined to give an update on the search or determine when the team will make an announcement. Presti said it's possible the team could begin summer-league practice in Las Vegas next Wednesday without a coach. If that were the case, Bryan Gates, who coaches the Idaho Stampede, Seattle's National Basketball Development League affiliate, might guide the team.

The leading candidates for the coaching job are believed to be San Antonio assistant P.J. Carlesimo and former Minnesota coach Dwane Casey. Sacramento assistant Scott Brooks also interviewed for the job, and the Salt Lake Tribune reported that Utah Jazz assistant Tyrone Corbin met with Presti on Saturday about the position.

"It was a good interview," Corbin told the paper. "We had a good talk. . . . It was a good experience for me."

Carlesimo and Casey have been unavailable for comment.

Ridnour on trading block

The Sonics are believed to be dangling point guard Luke Ridnour with the hopes of improving their size at the position or obtaining a second lottery pick.

Atlanta general manager Billy Knight has been enamored with the 6-foot-2, 175-pound Sonics guard and the Hawks have discussed trading their No. 11 pick and guard Salim Stoudamire for Ridnour, who split time as a starter with Earl Watson and averaged 11.0 points and 5.2 assists last season.

Orlando likes Lewis

The Orlando Magic has reportedly targeted Rashard Lewis as its top free-agent prize. Teams can begin negotiating with players Sunday and can't sign them until July 1. Charlotte, the only other team besides Orlando with enough salary-cap space for the Sonics forward, will re-sign Gerald Wallace and not make a bid for Lewis, according to league sources.

Seattle is able to offer Lewis more money and a longer contract than any other team. Owner Clay Bennett said he wants to re-sign Lewis. Presti, however, has been noncommittal.

Notes