As the Lakers struggle to reach .500 and stay relevant in the playoff picture, the spotlight has remained focused on Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard, but one Laker has been able to keep his thoughts close to the vest, prompting fans to sometimes wonder: Does Steve Nash regret coming to L.A?
The Lakers finally received not only a true point guard (Sorry Smush), but perhaps the best point guard they've seen don the purple and gold since Magic Johnson. He's battled losing streaks, injuries, public squabbles among teammates and a coaching change. Looking back, would the two-time MVP have done things differently?
"Ten out of 10 times, I make the same decision again," Nash said during an interview with USA Today.
The future Hall of Famer had more than a few suitors over the summer despite approaching the end of his thirties. He could've re-upped with the Phoenix Suns, his home from 2004-2012. The New York Knicks, desperately in need of a poing guard courted him. And then, there were the Toronto Raptors, who would've solidified his status as favorite son. L.A was a latecomer to the bidding, but it wasn't the sun and sand that enticed him, but something closer to home... or someones.
"I've gotten to see my kids probably four times as much as I'd seen them if I'd have gone back East," said Nash. "that's first and foremost. Second of all, it's a great experience to play for the Lakers organization...I'm happy here."
After only 5 regular season games, Nash saw the departure of coach Mike Brown and was soon reunited with his old coach...another Mike, by the name of D'Antoni. There were still questions as to whether a player who had ran the offense in Phoenix for nearly a decade could acquiesce control, to some degree to Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard.
"I'm beyond playing for the credit or the adulation. I feel secure in myself as a player. I just want to help this team, regardless of what it means for me professionally." Nash has sacrificed quite a bit of his game. He's averaging barely 7 assists a game this season, his lowest since the 1999-2000 season. He's also adjusted to times where Kobe Bryant has been the primary facilitator on offense.
"It's been an adjustment" Nash told USA today "It'd be nice, in some ways to have a bigger impact on the game. You have to balance it with all the guys, all the needs and personalities. I embrace it."
Speaking of personalities, with the one's playing alongside him, he may deserve an MVP for dealing with that alone.
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