Steve Nash practices with eye on full return to Lakers
- Steve Nash practiced for the Lakers early this week.
- Nash has been out since Oct. 31 since sustaining a lower leg injury.
- End-of-week practice sessions could determine Nash's return date.
When Lakers coach Mike D'Antoni was hired on Nov. 11, a major factor in the decision was the presence of point guard Steve Nash. The two made beautiful basketball music together during their time together in Phoenix from 2004 to 2008, but the 12-14 Lakers have done anything but since Nash's absence since Oct. 31 due to a left leg injury.
But Nash could be back as soon as Saturday at Golden State, or he may return in a Christmas Day game at home against the New York Knicks. Nash began practicing again on Monday, and practice sessions on Thursday and Friday will determine when he makes his return.
Before Tuesday's win against Charlotte, he worked out for nearly 40 minutes on the Staples Center floor as his rehabilitation continued. While the fracture in his left fibula that forced him out of action has long since healed, the delay in his return was caused by persistent nerve pain that Nash continues to monitor.
