The Los Angeles Lakers have been hit with a series of injuries throughout the season and they are currently without Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash. Bryant is expected to be out for six to nine months, while Nash on the other hand may be on the court for the Lakers' next game.
Yahoo! Sports is reporting that there is a chance that Nash will be back in the lineup for the team's first playoff game against the San Antonio Spurs. The veteran guard missed eight games due to strained hamstring and hip soreness, but the Lakers have still managed to make the post season with him on the sideline.
Nash and Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak both expressed optimism Nash would be able to play on Sunday.
"It really depends on whether the two epidurals work," Nash said. "If they kick in, I have a good chance to play."
Nash has had his struggles this season, but with Bryant out it is expected that Nash will return to his dominance. Even though he's older, he still has the ability to score and find open teammates.
Meanwhile, Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni will be back next season, according to General Manager Mitch Kupchak.
"Yeah, he's back. I think he's done a great job," Kupchak told The Times. "There's been no discussions otherwise.
"He's made adjustments. He's been flexible. He's evaluated how he coaches as the season's progressed. He's listened to the players. He's very easy to work with and we think in particular since the meeting the day of the Memphis game, yeah."
D'Antoni, 61, is 40-32 since taking over the Lakers' coaching job. He has two guaranteed years for a total of $8 million.
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