Los Angeles Lakers News: Steve Nash Hints at Possible Retirement

Los Angeles Lakers point guard Steve Nash is uncertain if he can still play because of nagging injuries. Unsurprisingly, Nash's recent health woes triggered speculation about the two-time MVP's possible retirement this season.

Hampered with recurring back problems, Nash, 39, hasn't been optimistic about his chance of making his return this season. In a recent interview with The Los Angeles Daily News' Mark Medina, Nash said he is unsure if he can still get back on the floor with the Lakers.

"I might not be able to play anymore. I might have to yo-yo it. I might be able to play the rest of the way. Honestly right now, I'm trying to see if I can play the rest of the way," Nash told Medina.

Possible Retirement?

Nash was averaging 6.7 points and 4.8 assists in 22 minutes per game before he was put on injury list on Nov. 12. The All-Star point guard has not played a single ballgame since then as the Lakers are trying to be cautious with his rehabilitation.

The Lakers have remained patient with Nash's recovery despite the injury to backup point guard Jordan Farmar. Head coach Mike D'Antoni has been starting Steve Blake at the point while shooting guard Xavier Henry has taken the role as a backup playmaker.

"There have been a few times this season that the word retirement has been suggested by media members and Nash himself as it sounds like he and the Lakers are trying to be extra cautious before he steps back onto the floor," Lakers Nation reported.

One possible option Nash could make is to use the medical retirement clause. Availing it would allow the veteran point guard to retire and still pocket $9.3 million, provided that he has appeared in less than 10 games this season. Nash received a three-year, $27 million contract after he was signed and traded by the Phoenix Suns to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2012.

"If Nash were to play in less than 10 games this season, he would be eligible to medically retire with the Lakers paying his $9.3 million salary, but it wouldn't count toward their cap," wrote Lakers Nation.