Peja Stojakovic could come off the bench in New Orleans this season in an effort to extend his career.

He missed 20 games last season because of back spasms. His back has been an issue ever since he underwent season-ending surgery to remove a disc fragment in 2006.

The Hornets sent Mark Cranston, Director of Athlete Performance and Rehabilitation, to Greece to check on the forward's back last month.

"Mark spent a couple of days with him (Stojakovic) and had very good reports," general manager Jeff Bower told the Times-Picayune. "We're pleased with what all our players have been doing at this point."

Stojakovic will earn $14.2 million this season and $15.3 million in 2010-11.