Where Is the Real Steve Nash?

Has Steve Nash peaked? If he has, then the Phoenix Suns are in deep trouble. Steve Nash used to be the catalyst for the “seven seconds or less” offense. The Phoenix Suns used to try to outrun their opponents and score. It was entertaining basketball. Now the offense that Steve Nash runs for Coach Terry Porter is struggling to put up points.

The Phoenix Suns lost a home game to the Los Angeles Lakers last night: 105 - 92. The game was not as close as the score indicates. Steve Nash played over thirty five minutes but there were long sequences where he did not score nor influence the game. He finished the night with eight points and ten assists. Those numbers are far from what would be expected from a two time Most Valuable Player recipient.

link: Box Score - Lakers / Suns

It is still early in the NBA season and the Suns are adjusting to a new coach, with a new system. However, Steve Nash is a master of the running offense which takes advantage of ball movement, quick transition points and finding the open scorer. This is an offense with a slow Shaquille O’Neal and waiting to run a set deliberate offense. It is a half court offense that uses far more than the “seven seconds”. Unfortunately, it may be taking away Steve Nash’s offensive artistry and almost eliminating the running game. It will only be a matter of time before the Phoenix Suns fans demand the return of the real Steve Nash.

Catherine Forsythe