One of the biggest potential trade chips on this season's trade market never seemed close to being dealt. The Suns insisted they'd keep Steve Nash unless the point guard asked to be traded, and Nash never made that request. While the 38-year-old didn't want to ask out of Phoenix, he definitely intends to explore his options when he becomes a free agent this summer. Nash appeared on the Dan Patrick Show this morning and addressed the topic (hat tip to Royce Young of CBSSports.com).
"It's going to be interesting this summer," Nash said. "Being a free agent, I didn't really want to leave at the deadline. I felt I owed it to me teammates and the Suns organization and the fans. I could possibly be back for sure. but that will be more interesting than the trade deadline."
Nash didn't rule out the possibility of joining former teammate Dirk Nowitzki and said he'd "definitely listen" if the Heat were interested. I can't picture Miami making a serious play for Nash with only the $3MM taxpayer mid-level exception to offer him, but it would certainly solidify the team's position as a title favorite.
As I wrote when I began examining the free agent market earlier this week, Nash might be the most attractive piece out there for contenders in need of a point guard. However, the Suns will almost certainly make a competitve bid, perhaps offering their star a multiyear deal. Would a return to Phoenix interest Nash?
"I'm not going to come back to the Suns if there isn't an improvement," Nash said. "If they're not ambitious and they're not looking to upgrade the roster seriously. And I think they are. They'll have a lot of flexibility in free agency. I think I've been standing pat so they could do some things this summer. I think they'll become a definite possibility for me, but I do want to win and I do want to consider all my options."
If the Heat offer Nash 3 Mill I guarantee he takes it. He’s not playing for a contract, and i assume he wants to cement his legacy and win a ring, Miami gives him the best chance to do it, but not sure if he fits in what they do. I love Steve Nash and just pray he goes to a place where he can win. But I’m selfish and hopes he comes to the Knicks. I like Lin, but Steve Nash is a top 3 PG, even at his age. In terms of setting a flow of the game, and passing, no one matches him. Hes shooting 54 % from the field, 90% from the FT line, and over 40% from 3s, so that doesnt hurt either. Nash probably wont play more than 30 mins in the game, so have Lin play the other 16 at point, and give him around 10 mins at the 2, which he played in college. That way hes able to continue to develop and learn from one of the best.