Prior to the Los Angeles Lakers entering training camp, Steve Nash had stressed that he was healthy and feeling confident about his ability to contribute this upcoming season. After sitting out for a majority of last year, Nash's return was met with excitement and skepticism. The confidence that Nash would return as the starting point guard has quickly been shut down after the veteran was officially ruled out for the season once again. Now Nash must make a decision about his future.
The Los Angeles Lakers announced on Thursday that Nash would miss the entire season due to a nerve issue from a back injury. The 40-year-old started having issues in the preseason, removing himself from a game after feeling off. He then injured his back lifting luggage in his home. Now, he has been ruled out for good.
"Being on the court this season has been my top priority, and it is disappointing to not be able to do that right now," Nash said, via ESPN.com. "I work very hard to stay healthy, and unfortunately my recent setback makes performing at full capacity difficult. I will continue to support my team during this period of rest and will focus on my long-term health.
Since getting traded to the Lakers in 2012, Nash has played in 65 games, 15 of those coming last season. Nash was originally brought on to complete a core group that consisted of Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Dwight Howard. However, his inconsistencies on the court paired with Bryant's string of injuries have gotten the Lakers nothing for the four draft picks they gave up for the star. Now Nash must figure out if retirement is the ultimate ending to these past two years.
According to Sam Amick of USA Today Sports, Nash has not intentions of retirement at this moment. The point guard will instead work out and try for a comeback next year. If things do not go well in that effort, the point guard will then be forced to make some tough decisions. Nash is in a contract year with the Lakers so if he does comeback, he will be fighting for a new contract. Given his recent history, it seems unlikely any team would take the risk signing him.
Bryant admitted Nash's string of injuries has been frustrating. He understands what it is like trying to comeback from several setbacks and he remains hopeful Nash can do the same. With the point guard out, Jeremy Lin will likely get inserted as a starter immediately with someone like Ronnie Price backing him up.