El Segundo – During a press conference at the team practice facility on Wednesday afternoon, the Los Angeles Lakers welcomed their newest addition to the team – Steve Nash. The two-time MVP was acquired by the Lakers in a sign-and-trade deal that was announced back on July 4, and made official late Tuesday night.
With his arrival in Los Angeles, Nash instantly became the most touted free agent acquisition since Shaquille O’Neal back in 1996. His ability to fill several roles that the Lakers desperately needed, mainly those of the playmaker and outside shooter, already has fans clamoring for another championship banner.
Nash, who multiple times stated his excitement over joining the Lakers, also discussed what went into his decision to join the Lakers.
“The opportunity to play for one of the greatest franchises in professional sports, one of the most decorated franchises, and in one of the greatest cities in the world was too good of an opportunity for me to pass up.”
The former leader of the Phoenix Suns also discussed his expectations for the upcoming season, and what he intends to bring to the table as the Lakers begin their quest for their 17th championship.
“I look forward to playing the pick and roll with everybody. The great thing about the pick and roll is that it’s a five man set. It’s the most difficult play to stop in basketball.”
There’s no doubt that Nash’s arrival has created a buzz around the city, as the Lakers are once again expected to compete at a championship level. One player familiar with championship prestige is Kobe Bryant, who Nash had a conversation with prior to agreeing with L.A.
“He was incredibly excited, optimistic, positive and encouraging. He made no qualms about the fact that he thought we would be a great fit together and work well together.”
There’s no doubt that Nash joined the Lakers in pursuit of his first championship, and he is ready to work towards that goal. At this point in his career he admits he wouldn’t be devastated if his career ended without reaching that championship goal, but that isn’t going to deter him from trying to reach that goal.
“I would be the life of the party if we won.”
For a fanbase that, fair or not, demands excellence every single season, those kind of answers will immediately put him in a favorable light.
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