The Lakers have been stunted for some time by not being able to have full practices with a healthy roster. Finally, according to Lakers reporter, Mike Trudell, Steve Nash was able to participate in a full contact practice today without limitations.
Steve Nash went through a full contact practice, including 5-on-5 scrimmage. Clearly good news for the Lakers. He’s still playing now.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 20, 2012
Although Nash’s return is still uncertain, the point guard did allude to Christmas as being the “most realistic,” in his interview on Lakers.com. Despite mentioning being in pain and out of shape, the Lakers savior did impress his teammates and coach at practice today. According to Dwight Howard’s interview on Lakers.com, Nash didn’t look like he missed a beat.
“Steve looked great. Looked like he didn’t miss a step. Today he hit me with a pass that I haven’t got hit with since I’ve been here.”
Gasol and D’Antoni also talked about being impressed with Nash’s practice today, which is a good sign since Nash had this to say about getting back in shape, once again in his interview on Lakers.com.
“Obviously I’m not in great condition after being pretty inactive for seven weeks, but that’s just the harsh reality. It’s going to be a painful period while I try to get myself not only back in shape but try to find my game and rhythm and time”
While Nash looks to find his rhythm, Metta World Peace will need to start getting comfortable with his new role off the bench. According to Trudell, World Peace might see a changing role this year.
D’Antoni likely to continue bringing MWP off bench. In certain matchups (OKC/Durant at the 3) he will start. He’s also open to adjusting. — Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 20, 2012
The good news is that everyone is on board with the adjustments as long as it produces wins. The problem with constant adjustments is that it doesn’t give the players the consistency and stability that many of them need to succeed. Steve Nash drew attention to the fact that their roles are still unclear in his interview posted on Lakers.com today.
“It’s hard to define exactly what roles are because we’re not a finished product…Some guys, their roles are going to be dual…so it’s evolving still”
Before their game against the Golden State Warriors on Saturday, the Lakers will have had three full days of practice. Hopefully, these days will give the Lakers more confidence in each of their roles (as well as each other) on this team.
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Did you see our interview with Kobe at his new Kobe VIII debut?
httpvhd://youtu.be/yeVNey_lqCY