--F Matt Barnes started his first game at power forward, but it was almost by default. Barnes, 6-7, 226 pounds, has neither the size nor the muscle to play the position for very long, although he did it when he played in Phoenix. He had been starting at small forward. He responded with 13 rebounds Friday night.

--G Jameer Nelson, now in his sixth season, moved into fifth place -- passing Tracy McGrady -- on the franchise's all-time assist list Friday night. Nelson still trails Scott Skiles, Anfernee Hardaway, Darrell Armstrong and Nick Anderson.

--C Dwight Howard had his season high of five blocked shots and his season high of 26 points Friday against the Nets. Howard said it was a talk prior to the game with Coach Stan Van Gundy that helped him regain his defensive dominance.

MEDICAL WATCH:

--F Ryan Anderson (sprained right ankle) is expected to be back in the lineup Monday night against Charlotte. He has missed the last four games.

--F Brandon Bass (flu) has been told to stay away from the team until he is well.

--C Adonal Foyle (right knee) had surgery midway in the preseason and he should be ready to return by the end of November.