Lower-back injuries that have gone chronic are seldom easy to conquer. When they involve nerves rather than just structural components, it's even harder. For a high-effort, older player like Nash, it's even tougher.
The Los Angeles Lakers medical staff has been able to get Nash on the court, but there's something of a wave pattern to the recovery. With each game, Nash's back is knocked down a few levels and it necessitates a lot of work to get him ready for the next game. Back-to-back games or even just a day or two in between outings means he's not returning to his previous level.
As the wave continues to lose capacity, with him unable to fully recover between starts, the nerve impingement just gets worse. Impact and even mere gravity work against any of the rehab, introducing new stresses on that area and in others due to compensation. Problems with his knees and legs have only further complicated matters.
There's not much more that can be done to offer Nash comfort and allow him to remain competitive. Down the line, Nash might need a surgical fix, but it's more likely that he'll be able to live a normal life once the physical demands from basketball aren't exacerbating the condition.
The latest news, via Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times, acknowledges the reality.
The work that Nash and the Lakers staff have to put in has gone past that point where it's worth the expenditures of time and effort. With the team well out of playoff contention, winning doesn't have the same value to the franchise.
In addition, the team is closer to getting Kobe Bryant back. As expected, his return f...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
