Steve Nash’s Disappearing Act From The Lakers Must End
By Jacob Rude
After two woeful, injury-filled seasons in Los Angeles, the Lakers and Steve Nash were confident heading into last October. Nash had rehabbed all summer and reportedly felt the best he had in years. The Lakers were eager to have Nash mentor newly acquired Jeremy Lin and rookie Jordan Clarkson.
Then everything derailed. Nash hadn’t conquered his nerve injury and, as a result, was forced to miss the entire season, likely his last chance of playing in the league. Rightfully so, Nash was upset and distraught. After a summer of rehab and years worth of fighting to get his body right, it had let him down.
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Not surprisingly, Nash distanced himself from the Lakers and the NBA for the time being. He understandably could not be around the sport he loved, but could no longer physically play anymore.
The Lakers offered their support, not only this year but throughout his rocky tenure in LA. There was never a question of waiving Nash, using the stretch provision to lessen his cap hit this year, or even working toward a medical retirement that would alleviate the cap hit on the Lakers.
But days turned into weeks. Weeks turned into months. The Lakers began reaching out, hoping Nash could still serve as a mentor to their young team. Byron Scott called and left voicemails, but got no answer. The team got a welcome surprise when Nash met the team as they departed for Chicago on Christmas Day, but that, too, seems like an anomaly now.
The Lakers were eager and willing to have Nash around the team in some capacity. Yet, Nash is no where to be found. Literally. In an interview on ESPNLA 710 yesterday, Jeanie Buss was asked of the whereabouts of Nash, to which she replied:
Jeanie Buss is asked on @ESPNLA710: 'Where is Steve Nash?' Her honest answer: "I don't know."
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) January 6, 2015
The Lakers have stood by Nash’s side throughout his tenure in LA. Despite how terrible his first season went, the Lakers wanted him to be apart of their pitch to Dwight Howard to stay in LA. After a second season where he only played 15 games, the Lakers never threatened to use the stretch provision on him heading into a summer where they were looking for max flexibility.
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And even after his retirement this pre-season, the Lakers were hopeful that he could provide something of benefit for the Lakers. As an unofficial assistant coach, the Lakers hoped Nash could impart some of the wisdom that helped the small guard out-wit opponents for years.
Instead, they’ve been treated like the crazy ex-girlfriend, forced to leave voice mails and question his whereabouts. After giving him all they could, Nash resembles the disinterested boyfriend, looking for a new way to spend his days now that he’s gotten all he wanted out of the Lakers.
It’s completely understandable that Nash is having difficulties coming to grips with his situation. But it’s time to come to grips with reality. The Lakers want him around, and they could use him. With Lin and Clarkson eager to learn, Nash can be the one to give them insight they desperately need.
It’s time to face the facts, Nash. The Lakers can use you. Stop disappearing on them.