Feb 11, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Steve Nash (10) dribbles the ball around Utah Jazz guard Trey Burke (3) at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
One day after announcing that Kobe Bryant was done for the season, another Laker was added to the list today. Oft-injured point guard Steve Nash was officially declared out for the season by head coach Mike D’Antoni on Thursday morning.
Mike D'Antoni officially closes the door on Steve Nash returning this season for the Lakers. "He's not going to play."
— Mike Bresnahan (@Mike_Bresnahan) March 13, 2014
In reality, it was simply a formality at this point to rule Nash out for the season. The former two-time MVP played just 10 games with the Lakers this season and battled a slew of injuries, from nerve issues to back soreness. Nash has valiantly given 100% to get back onto the court, but the injuries always got the best of him this season.
Nash’s future with the Lakers is up in the air at this point. With only one season left under contract, Nash could be released this summer. Using the stretch provision, the Lakers could waive Nash and only be on the hook for $3 million of his contract next season. However, Nash would also be on the books for $3 over the next two seasons as well, which could put a hitch into the Lakers plans for 2015.
Like everything else surrounding the Lakers this summer, uncertainty surrounds Nash. Retirement still could be an option, but judging by Nash’s mini-documentary series on Grantland – an absolute must-watch – Nash is not considering retirement and fully intends on battling his way back onto the court next season.