Sonics' road out of town is sure to be a bumpy one<br/><span class='hl2'>But both Oklahoma City, Seattle might end up with NBA teams</span>

The Sonics and the City of Seattle have irreconcilable differences.

The only question that seems to remain — how long before the two sides reach a final settlement?

Earlier this week, Seattle officials filed a lawsuit against the Sonics that would prohibit the team from vacating KeyArena before the end of their lease in 2010. That action came three days after the Sonics filed an arbitration demand. They hope to escape the final two years at the Key.

If the Sonics get their way, the team has said it is moving to Oklahoma City.

Not so long ago, the Sonics and the city were fighting and feuding but still holding hands from time to time. They were keeping up appearances.

No more.

Both sides have dug in their heels. The Sonics aren't staying in Seattle without a new arena, and Seattle isn't willing to give them new digs.

Can this marriage be saved?

There are several possibilities that might keep the Sonics in Seattle beyond the 2007-08 season.

First, the courts could demand it. A judge could rule that the Sonics must stay, and despite the owners' wealth and the team's clout, they would have to stay put.

Or the two sides could come to a financial compromise. The Sonics could offer to pay some lump sum that would placate the city and buy out the lease.

Or the NBA could intervene. This is the one preferred by yours truly. David Stern and his New York friends could head to the Pacific Northwest and play the part of arbiters.

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