--G Kyle Weaver made his first career start Friday at Utah, taking the spot vacated by the injured Desmond Mason. Weaver scored five in 24 minutes. He has taken a bigger role in the rotation in January, though the move isn't necessarily permanent.

"Since he was inserted in the rotation, Kyle has played well," coach Scott Brooks said. "He's a defensive-minded guy whose offensive game is coming along. He can hit spot-up shots, moves the ball well and knows how to play."

--F Jeff Green is being asked to take over the role of lockdown defender with Desmond Mason out for the season. The second-year vet is up for the challenge.

"I have to," Green said Thursday. "Desmond was a big part of our defense. He was our energy guy. He was our leader on the defensive end. It was a big loss, but we have to step up. It's not just going to be me. It has to be the team.

"We just have to group together and help each other out. One of us has to step up and take the role of defending the best player and if that's me, then I'm willing to take the challenge."

--G Chucky Atkins went three weeks without seeing action until finally suiting up Monday. He's played three consecutive games for the Thunder, scoring 14 points total in 39 minutes. He had two points in Friday's loss at Utah.

MEDICAL WATCH:

--F D.J. White (jaw surgery) had a benign tumor removed Oct. 13. The second phase of the surgery involved mending the jaw with bone graft taken from his hip. He's begun doing light workouts.

--G Desmond Mason (knee surgery) is missing the rest of the season. He is expected to make a full recovery.

--F Joe Smith (sore knee) was inactive Friday at Utah and is officially listed as day-to-day. He's missed nine straight games.