NEW ORLEANS — Peja Stojakovic missed the New Orleans Hornets' game against the Sacramento Kings today because of back spasms.

Stojakovic also missed the Hornets' victory over San Antonio on Wednesday night.

This time, Hornets coach Byron Scott said trainers believe Stojakovic's condition has improved, but that some extra rest would help. The Hornets also may need the threat of Stojakovic's outside shooting when the Western Conference-leading Los Angeles Lakers visit New Orleans on Tuesday night.

Stojakovic missed most of the 2006-07 season because of surgery to remove a disk fragment in his lower back, but came back strong last season, starting 77 games.

Stojakovic has started 20 games this season, averaging 13.1 points. He is shooting 43 percent from 3-point range and leads the team in 3-pointers with 53.

Scott said doctors have told the Hornets it is common for athletes who have undergone back surgery to have brief flareups and periods of soreness.

Scott said team doctors currently are not concerned about Stojakovic's condition and expect him to be fine with a little more rest.