Since the return of Steve Nash to the starting lineup the Los Angeles Lakers have won two straight consecutive games in a row. The offense has been running smoother and some players have already shown signs of improvement with Nash back in uniform.
Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni understands how effective of a player Nash can be, having spent time coaching the two-time MVP while with the Phoenix Suns. Nash has the ability to find his teammates for open non-contested baskets, something that D'Antoni believes will benefit All-Star Kobe Bryant in the long run.
According to the OC Register, D'Antoni spoke about the impact Nash will have on Bryant and his belief that Nash's play-making ability will help extend his career.
"I think he'll play another five (or) six years because of it," said Mike D'Antoni.
As of now Bryant is signed through the 2013-14 season and has hinted to retirement at the conclusion of his contract with the Lakers.
"That's a long time to be playing," Bryant said. "It'll be the last year on my contract. I don't know if I will play any longer than that. I don't know. It's just a possibility. It's not something I even give it much thought to, but it's a possibility. It could happen."
Though his NBA career may come to an end after next season, Bryant has also hinted to continuing playing overseas where his love for the sport began.
"You'd have to look at the market and what's going on in terms of the level of basketball being played," Kobe said. "I understand there's a high level of competitive basketball in Turkey now. They might have the best league in Europe. Spain has obviously been one of the top leagues for a long time. And Italy is a place that's dear in my heart, I grew up there, but the level is not where it used to be. When I was growing up over there, that was the best league in Europe."
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