Vitaly

Potapenko

Potapenko was arrested outside a Miami nightclub on July 11 for disorderly intoxication and resisting arrest. “This should all be taken care of, and then I’ll be able to move on,” Potapenko said. “From my understanding, there will be no trial or anything like that.”

Potapenko is able to shoot, but he’s not yet ready for contact.

Coach Nate McMillan isn’t sure when Potapenko will be activated and said he wants to get a long look at him and Ronald Murray (strained left quadriceps) in practice first. The rotation in Seattle has worked well without these two players, so the coach doesn’t want to rock the boat.

He will be evaluated this week and could come off the injured list soon, coach Nate McMillan said. He could have a little value if he starts for the Sonics.

Calvin Booth and Jerome James ''are two guys that we as an organization signed, and we want to give them an opportunity to play,’' McMillan said. ''If I had to say which of the three, (Potapenko) would probably be in the rotation because of the experience he brings to the floor.’' Potapenko will have to wait for a trade or injury to see any playing time.

Coach Nate McMillan said Potapenko will be fined and will not start tonight. It remains to be seen if he will play.

All first-time offenders of non-violent crimes in Florida are eligible for a pre-trial diversion which can range from charity donation to a program of meetings. Potapenko was arrested last month on charges of disorderly intoxication and resisting without violence last month when he got into a confrontation over entrance to a Miami Beach club.

Potapenko was arrested Saturday and posted bail on Sunday. “We’ve heard that he’s been arrested for two misdemeanors on two counts,” Sonics GM Rick Sund said. “I’m not going to do anything until I talk to him. I’m not taking any stance until I get more information.”

Potapenko was expected to start at center for Seattle, so this is a big loss. Jerome James and Robert Swift are the only true centers left on the squad. Danny Fortson likely will see minutes at the position against smaller teams.

Potapenko will miss the first six weeks with a broken right hand. Kutluay has left knee tendinitis.