The Los Angeles Lakers have acquired two-time MVP Steve Nash from the Phoenix Suns in a sign-and-trade deal, it was confirmed today.
The eight-time NBA All-Star signed a contract valued at $25 million over three years, and will head to Los Angeles in exchange for their first round draft picks in 2013 and 2015, and their second round draft picks in 2013 and 2014.
The move benefits both clubs, as the Lakers are now thrust back into championship contention and the Suns get something as opposed to nothing as Nash leaves through a sign-and-trade instead of via free agency.
For the Lakers, they have added another all-star to their already impressive collection of Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum.
Following a second straight second round flameout in the NBA Playoffs, the Lakers knew they had to actively improve and had been pursuing deals since the start of the offseason.
It was assumed the only way the Lakers could marginally improve was to deal either Pau Gasol or Andrew Bynum, though it seemed hard to get anything better than those players in return. However, the shock move has answered the prayers of Lakers fans and drastically improved LA without sending out any talent.
The acquisition of Steve Nash sees Kobe Bryant paired with an all-star point guard for the first time in 14 years, since Nick Van Exel called Los Angeles home.
The move also satisfies two desires held by Steve Nash: the desire to win a championship, and to be close to his children.
After sixteen years in the league, 38 year old Steve Nash has never even been to the NBA Finals and is desperate to catch that elusive ring with his final NBA contract. He also is now close to his family and children, which sets him up well for his post-playing career which is only years away.
As well as adding a star whose career averages read 14.5ppg and 8.6 assists, the Lakers have also reportedly gained an inside edge to adding Nash’s Phoenix teammate Grant Hill, who like Nash, is seeking a championship ring in the twilight of his career.
Hill, still a quality small forward, would fill another hole on the Lakers roster and another excellent coup for Los Angeles management.
The deal is not officially confirmed yet, as a leaguewide moratorium on new business currently active until July 11, but the deal has been confirmed from Nash himself.
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