Mike D’Antoni Believes Nash Can Help Extend Bryant’s Career

Steve Nash returned from an injury on Saturday, and the Lakers have gone 2-0 with him back in the lineup. The Lakers’ offense is running much smoother than before and some of the players are already seeing an improvement with Nash back in uniform.

Coach Mike D’Antoni coached Nash while with the Phoenix Suns and he understands just how effective the point guard can be. Nash has the ability to find his teammates open for easy baskets, something that is needed with this Lakers squad, especially Kobe Bryant. Bryant takes some very difficult shots, but with an elite point guard like Nash in the backcourt, Bryant’s life will much easier on the court.

D’Antoni spoke to the OC Register and  talked about the impact Nash will have on Bryant. D’Antoni believes Nash’s play-making ability will help extend Bryant’s career.

“I think he’ll play another five (or) six years because of it,” said Mike D’Antoni.

At this point, Bryant is signed through the 2013-14 NBA season and he has hinted at retirement once his contract ends. It seems logical that this will be Bryant’s last NBA deal and there is a chance he calls it quits in two seasons.

However, if D’Antoni is right, Lakers fans will still have Bryant for the foreseeable future.