This Lakers season hasn't turned out how anyone would have imagined, with the team clinging to a narrow lead on the Utah Jazz for the simple privilege of making the postseason. Every game--and every potential loss--could mean an early summer for LA. In tonight's latest crucial game in a series of a dozen, All-Star point guard Steve Nash won't be a part of it, according to Mike Trudell:
Steve Nash (back/hip) is OUT for tonight's game against Golden State.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) April 12, 2013
Nash has missed five straight games, which doesn't include a 2 minute cameo appearance the contest right before it. He was listed as questionable for game time, shooting for either tonight or Sunday against the San Antonio Spurs to make his return. The Lakers badly need Nash for this stretch run, whose absence is a large reason why Kobe Bryant has been logging 40+ minutes the past six games, including four 47+ minute marathons. He'll try to give it a go in a couple days, but at his age and the nature of his injuries, it has to be asked whether or not Nash will be able to even come back during the regular with so few games left.
Steve Blake will play in his absence, with Bryant being utilized as the de facto back-up point guard.
--Mambino
--Follow this author @TheGreatMambino