The Lakers took on the Portland Trail Blazers Tuesday night but fell, 124-112. Steve Nash has missed most of the season dealing with a nerve irritation, but was available for Tuesday’s game and put up a double-double with 10 points and 10 assists.
Following the loss, Nick Young was not surprised Nash can still play at a high level, according to TWC SportsNet:
“Yeah, he’s a big time player. You just gotta look out. Any given play he can just find you, and that’s big. He’s been big for me coming off the bench with me. We got our little plays written down, and I know when he comes out I gotta be prepared.”
When Nash is on the court, he is constantly looking to get other teammates involved. His 10 assists Tuesday night came in just under 22 minutes of playing time. Nash similarly dropped 11 assists in 18 minutes during a March 21 matchup against the Washington Wizards.
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Nash currently has the fourth most assists in NBA history and is known as an elite playmaker. Unfortunately, injuries have cut Nash’s Laker career short. Appearing against the Blazers, Nash has only played in 13 games this season and 63 total over the last two years.
Nash’s injury problems have been a concern for the Lakers all year. Even if Nash plays in a game, his minutes are often limited. Nash commonly sits out the second game of back-to-backs and he’s doubtful to play in Wednesday’s game against the Sacramento Kings.
Nash is signed on with the Lakers for another year, and the Lakers are expected to eat up his $9.7 million salary instead of using the stretch provision. Nash admitted his future is uncertain, but will be spending the summer resting. The Lakers will be looking to bounce back next season with or without Nash healthy.
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Steve Nash Says He “Had A Blast!” Back Out On The Court