Gary Payton Talks Dale Ellis / Xavier McDaniel Friction (1990-91 Season)

Dale Ellis and Xavier McDaniel starred on the Sonics teams of the late 1980's - a run that included a trip to the Western Conference Finals in 1987. However, by Gary Payton's rookie season (1990-91), the Sonics' core was starting to crack. Increasing friction between All-Stars Ellis and McDaniel escalated into real beef - beef that Gary Payton witnessed first hand.

The Glove pulls no punches in describing the the atmosphere around the Sonics at the beginning of the season. McDaniel (to Phoenix) and Ellis (to Milwaukee) would both end up being traded during the course of the season. The pair have since made up - and Gary shares his gratitude for both Ellis and McDaniel, two vets who showed him the ropes during his rookie season.