Steve Novak scored three points in 28 minutes vs. the Lakers on Sunday, making 1-of-9 shots from downtown. He grabbed three rebounds with no other stats to his credit, but this game was more encouraging than it may appear at first glance. The 28 minutes were a season-high, as were his nine shots, and the fact that they were all 3-point attempts is terrific for a career 43.1 percent 3-point marksman. John Salmons and Patrick Patterson present a renewed threat to Novak's bench role, however, so he's best avoided until the dust settles.